Your Guide to Private Education

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PRIVATE EDUCATION WEDNESDAY, 08.15.18

MORE THAN AN EDUCATION. AN INSPIRATION. Join us for our PRE-K-K OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2018 at 9 a.m.

For more information or a personal tour, contact Director of Admissions Mary Peccie at 757.480.1495 or visit NorfolkCollegiate.org.

Lower School Campus Grades Pre-K-5 5429 Tidewater Drive, Norfolk

Middle & Upper School Campus Grades 6-12 7336 Granby Street, Norfolk

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Portsmouth Catholic Regional School, accredited, age 3 to eighth grade, 2301 Oregon Ave., 488-6744, www.portsmouthcatholic.net

Francis Asbury Preschool, ages 2½ to 4, 1871 N. Great Neck Road, 481-5016, www.francisasburyumc.org

St. Matthew’s School, accredited, age 3 to eighth grade, 3316 Sandra Lane, 420-2455, www.smsvb.net

Portsmouth Christian Schools, accredited, kindergarten age 4 to 12th grade, 3214 Elliott Ave., 393-0725, www.portsmouthchristian.org

Friends School of Virginia Beach, accredited, age 3 to 12th grade, 1537 Laskin Road, 428-7534, www.friends-school.org

Star of the Sea Catholic School, accredited, age 3 to eighth grade, 309 15th St., 428-8400, www.edline.net/pages/StaroftheSeaES

St. Mark Christian Academy, age 3 to third grade, 2714 Frederick Blvd., 399-7176, http://teacherweb. com/VA/StMarkChristianAcademy/SMCA/apt1.aspx

Galilee Montessori School, age 3 to third grade, 3928 Pacific Ave., 428-1034, www. galileemontessorischool.net

Sunnybrook Day School, accredited, ages 2½ through kindergarten, 3380 Edinburgh Drive, 340-2266, sunnybrookdayschool.org

Sweethaven Christian Academy, age 3 to 12th grade, 5000 W. Norfolk Road, 484-4082, www.sweethavenchristian.org

Gateway Christian School, age 3 to 12th grade, 5473 Virginia Beach Blvd., 499-6551, www.gatewaycrusaders.com

Tabernacle Baptist Academy, age 3 to 12th grade, 717 Whitehurst Landing Road, 424-4673, http://tbapatriots.com

Toras Chaim, accredited, preschool to eighth grade, 3110 Sterling Point Drive, 686-2480, toraschaim.net

The Goddard School, accredited, preschool and kindergarten, 2189 McComas Way, 563-2500, www.goddardschool.com/Schools/VirginiaBeach-VA/Schools.gspx

Tidewater Classical Academy Age 4 to eighth grade, 1201 Rosemont Road, 427-5683, www.tidewaterclassical.com

Young Achievers Christian Academy, ages 3-5, 100 Noble St., 235-4119, www.cocoutreach.org

SUFFOLK Children’s Harbor – Suffolk, accredited, age 6 weeks to 5 years, before- and after-school care for ages 5 to 12, 1020 Champions Way, 483-2693, www.childrensharbor.cc Nansemond-Suffolk Academy, accredited, age 3 to 12th grade, 3373 Pruden Blvd., 539-8789, www.nsacademy.org Suffolk Christian Academy, accredited, Pre-K3 through 12th grade, 917 Carolina Rd., 809-6606, suffolkchristianacademy.org

VIRGINIA BEACH All Saints Day School, age 2 to kindergarten, 1969 Woodside Lane, 481-0577, www.allsaintsdayschoolvb.com Anchor Christian School, age 2½ to fifth grade, 3624 Dupont Circle, 460-0024 Atlantic Shores Christian School, accredited, age 3 to 12th grade, 1861 Kempsville Road, 479-1125 (elementary campus), 1217 N. Centerville Turnpike, Chesapeake (secondary campus), 479-9598, www.shoreschristian.org Back Bay Christian Academy, pre-K to 12th grade, 1212 Princess Anne Road, 426-7943 Barefoot Kids Christian School, infants to kindergarten, 1458 Kempsville Road, 467-1234, www.barefootkids.com Beach Montessori Christian Academy, ages 2 to 13, 1101 Eaglewood Drive, 428-5437, www.beachmontessoritech.com Bishop Sullivan Catholic High School, accredited, ninth grade to 12th grade, 4552 Princess Anne Road, 467-2881, www.chsvb.org Cape Henry Collegiate School, accredited, pre-K to 12th grade, 1320 Mill Dam Road, 481-2446, www.capehenrycollegiate.org Chesapeake Bay Academy, accredited, kindergarten to 12th grade, 821 Baker Road, 497-6200, www.cba-va.org Emmanuel Episcopal Day School, ages 2½ to 4, 5181 Princess Anne Road, 499-7393, www.dayschool.emmanuelvb.com

Hebrew Academy of Tidewater, accredited, kindergarten to fifth grade, (plus ages 2-4 at Strelitz Early Childhood Center) 5000 Corporate Woods Drive, 424-4327, www.hebrewacademy.net Ivy League Academy, age 3 to fifth grade, 520 Constitution Drive, 499-6064, www. ivyleagueacademy.net Kids Town Learning Center, infant through kindergarten, 4847 Dolton Drive, 490-4702, www.KidsTownLearningCenter.net King’s Grant Academy & Day School, accredited, preschool to fifth grade, 873 Little Neck Road, 431-9744, www.kingsgrantdayschool.com KPC Day School, age 3 to kindergarten, 805 Kempsville Road, 495-4611, www.kpcdayschool.com New Light Baptist School of Excellence, preschool to fourth grade, 5549 Indian River Road, 420-0945, www.newlightfgbc.org/ SchoolOfExcellence/tabid/86/Default.aspx Norfolk Christian Schools, accredited, pre-K to 12th grade; Lower School Virginia Beach campus, 1265 Laskin Road, 428-1284; Lower School Norfolk campus, 7000 Granby St., 423-5812; Upper School, 255 Thole St., 423-5770, www.norfolkchristian.org Oaktree Academy, accredited, kindergarten to 12th grade, 817 Kempsville Road, 248-9560, www.oaktreeacademy.org Parish Day School of Eastern Shore Chapel, ages 2½ to 4, 2020 Laskin Road, 491-6130, www.parishdayschool.com Primrose School of Virginia Beach South, accredited, infant-K, 1989 Fisher Arch, 721-2200, www.primroseschools.com/schools/ virginia-beach-south Rivermont School – Tidewater, accredited, ages 5 to 22, for children with behavioral, learning and developmental disabilities and autism, 5163 Cleveland St., 497-4703, mentalhealth. centrahealth.com/services/rivermont-schools Rollingwood Academy, age 2½ to kindergarten, 1752 Prodan Lane, 430-8244, www. rollingwoodacademy.com

HAMPTON Calvary Christian Academy, age 2 to third grade, 2311 Tower Place, 325-4222, cca.calvarycommunity.org Calvary Classical School, age 3 to sixth grade, 403 Whealton Road, 262-0062, www.calvaryclassical.org Faith Outreach Education Center, age 2 to 12th grade, 3105 W. Mercury Blvd., 838-8949 Friends In Jesus Learning Center, age 2½ to fifth grade, 1062 Big Bethel Road, 265-6966, www.fjlc.org Hampton Christian Schools, accredited, preschool to 12th grade, 2419 N. Armistead Ave., 838-7427, www.hamptonchristianschools.com Rivermont School – Hampton, accredited, ages 5 to 22, for children with behavioral, learning and developmental disabilities, 303 Butler Farm Road, Suite 100, 766-2347, mentalhealth. centrahealth.com/services/rivermont-schools St. Mary Star of the Sea School, accredited, age 3 to eighth grade, 14 N. Willard Ave., 723-6358, www.saintmarystarofthesea.com

NEWPORT NEWS The Academy at Newport News Behavioral Health Center, accredited, ages 5-21, alternative education for students with emotional, learning and mental disabilities, 17579 Warwick Blvd., 888-0400, www.newportnewsbhc.com Denbigh Baptist Christian School, accredited, age 2½ to 12th grade, 13010 Mitchell Point Road, 249-2654, www.dbcs.org Denbigh Christian Academy, accredited, age 4 to eighth grade, 1233 Shields Road, 874-8661, www.denbighchristianacademy.com East End Academy, accredited, ages 5 to 21, for special education and at-risk students, 2000 27th St., 247-0039, www.eastendacademy.com First Baptist Church Denbigh Child Development Center, age 2½ to fifth grade, 3628 Campbell Road, 833-7261, www.fbcdenbigh.org/child_dev__center Hampton Roads Academy, accredited, pre-K to 12th grade, 739 Academy Lane, 884-9100, www.hra.org

Coastal Christian Academy, kindergarten to 12th grade, 640 Kempsville Road, 217-2151

St. Gregory the Great School, accredited, pre-K to eighth grade, 5343 Virginia Beach Blvd., 497-1811, www.stgregory.pvt.k12.va.us

Courthouse Montessori School, age 16 months to fifth grade, 1305 Windmill Point Crescent, 4680099, www.courthouse montessorischool.com

St. John the Apostle Catholic School, accredited, Oyster Point Academy, kindergarten to 12th age 4 to eighth grade, 1968 Sandbridge Road, grade, for children with behavioral, learning and 821-1100, www.sjavb.org

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School, accredited, pre-K to eighth grade, 52 Harpersville Road, 596-2754, www.olmc-school.com

developmental disabilities, 766 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., 594-1580 Peninsula Catholic High School, accredited, eighth grade to 12th grade, 600 Harpersville Road, 596-7247, www.peninsulacatholic.com Rhema Christian Center Academy, age 3 to second grade, 1700 27th St., 244-1258, www. rhemacc.com/RCC-Academy-General-Info-.html St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, accredited, pre-k to fifth grade, 45 Main St., 596-6261, www.standrewsepiscopalschool.com Summit Christian Academy, accredited, age 4 to 12th grade, 69 Saunders Road, 599-9424 (grammar school), 4209 Big Bethel Road, Yorktown, 867-7005 (upper school), www.summitchristianacademy.org Trinity Lutheran School, age 3 to eighth grade, 6812 River Road, 245-2576, www.trinitynn.com Warwick River Christian School, accredited, age 3 to eighth grade, 252 Lucas Creek Road, 877-2941, www.warwickriver.org

ELSEWHERE Southampton Academy, accredited, pre-K to 12th grade, 26495 Old Plank Road, Courtland, 653-2512, www.southamptonacademy.org Broadwater Academy, accredited, pre-K to 12th grade, 3500 Broadwater Road, Exmore, 442-9041, www.broadwateracademy.org Gloucester Montessori, ages 2½ to 12, 8381 George Washington Highway, Gloucester, 804-693-6455, www.gloucestermontessori.org Ware Academy, accredited, age 3 to eighth grade, 7936 John Clayton Memorial Hwy., Gloucester, 804-693-3825, www.wareacademy.org Isle of Wight Academy, accredited, pre-K to 12th grade, 17111 Courthouse Hwy., Isle of Wight, main: 357-3866, pre-K: 357-5193, www.iwacademy.com King of Glory Preschool and Kindergarten, accredited, preschool and kindergarten, 4897 Longhill Road, Williamsburg, 757-258-1070, www.kogva.org Providence Classical School, kindergarten to 12th grade, 6000 Easter Circle, Williamsburg, 757-565-2900, www.pcsvirginia.org Walsingham Academy, accredited, pre-K to 12th grade, 1100 Jamestown Road, Williamsburg, upper school: 229-6026, lower school: 229-2642, www.walsingham.org Williamsburg Christian Academy, accredited, pre-K to 12th grade, 101 Schoolhouse Lane, Williamsburg, 757-220-1978, www.williamsburgchristian.org Williamsburg Montessori School, ages 2½ to 12, 4200 Longhill Road, Williamsburg, 757-565-0977, www.williamsburgmontessori.org Living Word Academy, preschool to ninth grade, 110 Industry Drive, Yorktown, 757-867-8024, www.thelivingword.net/school/lionsden.html Summit Christian Academy, accredited, prekindergarten to 12th grade, 4209 Big Bethel Road, Yorktown, 757-867-7005, www.summitchristianacademy.org Sources: Virginia Council for Private Education, individual schools

| WEDNESDAY, 08.15.18 | Advertising Supplement to The Virginian-Pilot | YOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE EDUCATION | 11

ONLINE RESOURCES www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/oii/ nonpublic The Office of Non-Public Education – part of the U.S. Department of Education – offers information on private elementary and secondary schools.

www.privateschools.com This site provides detailed information on paying for private K-12 schools. nces.ed.gov/surveys/pss/ privateschoolsearch From the U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences, this link will take you to a search form for private schools across the United States. www.nais.org The National Association of Independent Schools represents about 1,400 independent schools and associations in the United States. Find tips for parents, searches, career services, conference information and more on this site. www.vais.org The Virginia Association of Independent Schools is an affiliate of the National Association of Independent Schools. Find lists of the group’s member schools, conference information, accreditation descriptions, resources and more on this site.

www.vcpe.org The Virginia Council for Private Education oversees accreditation of nonpublic preschool, elementary and secondary schools in the state. Check whether a school is accredited and get other links and resources here.

www.capenet.org The Council for American Private Education is a coalition of national organizations and state affiliates serving private schools.

Search schools, find information on legislation, or check out a job bank on this site. www.advanc-ed.org AdvancED is an international accrediting body that includes the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS-CASI). Learn more about what they do, how they accredit and their member schools. www.amshq.org Learn more about Montessori schools and find one at this website for The American Montessori Society.

There are several Christian school accrediting bodies and school associations. Check out these websites for more information: www.acsiglobal. org, The Association of Christian Schools; www.actsschools.org, Association of Christian Teachers and Schools; icaa.us, International Christian Accrediting Association; www.nacsaa. org, North American Christian School Accrediting Agency; www.ilcsonline. com, The International League of Christian Schools; www.thediocese. net/ChurchSchools, The Episcopal Diocese of Virginia; www.accsedu.org, Association of Classical and Christian Schools. www.iwacademy.com/visa.html, Virginia Independent School Association www.visaa.org The Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association helps develop athletics guidelines for accredited independent schools.

A FOUNDATION FOR SUCCESS THE MOMENTUM FOR A LIFETIME At Cape Henry Collegiate, our mission is to know, value, and challenge each student. We do that by fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community that is rooted in a dynamic and innovative learning-by-doing curriculum. We invite you to join us and learn more about the Cape Henry experience.

Discover the exceptional opportunities at Cape Henry Collegiate. Call 757.963.8234 to schedule your personal tour.

Prekindergarten 3 – Grade 12 | 1320 Mill Dam Road | Virginia Beach, Virginia | 757.963.8234 | CapeHenryCollegiate.org

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2019-2020 ACADEMIC YEAR 30 5

12 | YOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE EDUCATION | Advertising Supplement to The Virginian-Pilot | WEDNESDAY, 08.15.18 |

At Norfolk Academy, we know that love of learning doesn’t just happen.

It is created...by teachers who bring passion, innovation, and expertise to all they do, from our unique Engineering, Design, and Innovation program, starting in first grade, to courses in studio art, broadcast journalism, and advanced biology, chemistry, and physics.

When classes end each day, our teachers take to the fields and stage, coaching 74 athletic teams, guiding academic teams like Model U.N. and robotics, and directing music, drama, and dance.

Our teachers love what they do... and their example shapes students who love to learn.

Need-based financial aid available.

Register now for fall admissions events and tours of our new Lower School. norfolkacademy.org Where students in grades 1-12 grow into responsible and responsive citizen-scholars.

1585 Wesleyan Drive | Norfolk, Virginia 23502 | 757-455-5582

2 | YOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE EDUCATION | Advertising Supplement to The Virginian-Pilot | WEDNESDAY, 08.15.18 |

WHAT’S INSIDE The art of educating citizens PAGE 2

Artists creating artists - Three profiles of local art educators PAGE 4

What to look for in a private school PAGE 6

Local private schools by city PAGE 8

Online resources PAGE 11

ABOUT THE SECTION editor Clay Barbour, clay.barbour@ pilotonline.com

advertising manager Marianne Walker, marianne.walker @pilotonline.com

PHOTO PROVIDED BY NORFOLK ACADEMY

Norfolk Academy students perform in the Lower School Spring Concert on May 30, 2018.

The art of N educating citizens Private schools remain committed to providing an education that gives students the chance to incorporate art into life.

By Ben Swenson | Correspondent

orfolk Academy will this fall conclude a multi-million dollar capital and endowment campaign that has supported major areas of need at the school, including scholarships, a center for student leadership programs and a new stadium.

But academy officials also demonstrated an abiding priority for the arts by adding space for new rehearsal areas for band, orchestra and chorus as well as classrooms for music and art.

Funding for the arts in public schools has for years faced increased scrutiny. Norfolk Academy’s decision to expand venues for creative expression reflects a strong desire among private school leaders to protect fine and performing arts. Such moves display a belief that students need exposure beyond the core academic subjects to become well-rounded citizens.

Norfolk Academy headmaster Dennis Manning said numerous graduates have gone on to make a good living in the field, including opera tenor Timothy Oliver and Preston Whiteway, executive director of Eugene O’Neill Theater Center, which won a regional theatre Tony Award

| WEDNESDAY, 08.15.18 | Advertising Supplement to The Virginian-Pilot | YOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE EDUCATION | 3

in 2010. But beyond the obvious values of arts education, there is also a belief that fostering creativity spurs unconventional thinking for novel situations.

Ninety percent of Americans believe that the broad field of study is a critical component of a comprehensive curriculum, according to Jeff Poulin, arts education program manager at Americans for the Arts. That perception is fueled by anecdotal and empirical evidence that illuminate those benefits. “Vast research shows the connection between arts learning and student success,” Poulin said. “Beyond that, we also know that artsinvolved youth are more successful in work, in life and in their community.”

That’s why maintaining strong programs for the arts is a must, said Laura Godwin, assistant director of accreditation and statistical analysis for the Virginia Association of Independent Schools.

Godwin is a product of private education in Richmond, and was particularly drawn to pottery in her grade school years. She said that exposure taught her lessons far beyond the classroom. Art class helps teach virtues like courtesy and punctuality and maybe most importantly, the ability to give and receive constructive criticism.

Art also teaches young people that it is all right to fail. Godwin said learning what not to do is often as important as the grasping the correct methods. “There were many days that I sat at the pottery wheel and tried to throw something, but it didn’t work. In the moment it feels like a wasted day, but it’s not,” Godwin said.

For Godwin, art class was an outlet, a place for selfexpression that she largely did not find in other classes. Many students need a release from the competitive and time-consuming efforts of school. “Art, for me, was stress-relieving and really helped combat my anxiety,” she said.

That creative outlet is a central component of forming the whole child, said Manning. Getting students to flex their imaginative

BILL TIERNAN PHOTOS | THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

The Norfolk Academy Lower School expansion will be open for students when they start school on August 27. The second floor has practice rooms for band, orchestra, and chorus, and a new music classroom. The bottom floor has a new art classroom, a new space for engineering, design, and innovation classes, and a multi-purpose space.

“Vast research shows the connection between arts learning and student success. Beyond that, we also know that artsinvolved youth are more successful in work, in life and in their community.”

Jeff Poulin, arts education program manager at Americans for the Arts

muscle is impor ta nt be cause they will use a different part of their brain than they would for math or English.

M a n ni ng said an other broad goal of art is to get students to appreciate an aesthetic experience, to embrace and interpret the emotions that art evokes. Art is a bedfellow to the academic experience, according to Manning. Children appreciate an emotional experience when it is connected to what they are learning.

“I think that children, in

too many places and in too many ways, are meeting encounters with the ugly,” said Manning. “They need to see beauty more frequently in all its forms.”

G o d w i n s a id pr iv a t e schools do not simply pay lip service to the arts. They are genuinely invested in this part of the school experience.

Much of Godwin’s job with VAIS involves accrediting private schools based on a comprehensive list of criteria, including a detailed description of the curric-

ulum. Virtually all of the schools she surveys have a robust art department, despite the fact that many of them face the same tough choices that administrators must make when faced with finite budgets.

And these art programs are not an afterthought, Godwin said. They are obviously a treasure. Student art is almost always displayed prominently for people to see when they enter the building. “That sets the tone that this is a creative space,” she said.

4 | YOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE EDUCATION | Advertising Supplement to The Virginian-Pilot | WEDNESDAY, 08.15.18 |

artists creating artists Three profiles of local art educators

written by Ben Swenson

BILL TIERNAN | THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT

Elbert Watson AS A TEENAGER, ELBERT WATSON was told that he lacked the strength to ever dance professionally. He learned then that words and actions matter. Today he builds relationships with students to empower them through dance. “One encouraging word can be the launchpad for a child’s destiny,” he said.

Watson has danced all over the world from New Zealand to New York, where he was principal dancer for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. But the Norfolk native was conducting a summer dance program in 1984 at Norfolk Academy in between jobs for a ballet company in Germany when he had an epiphany. He loved performance, but the transformation he helped children achieve through the medium was magical.

Driven by that epiphany, Watson’s brief hometown hiatus changed into a long-

Norfolk Academy

term mission. Since then he has built what many regard as the most vigorous school dance program in Hampton Roads. Watson now reaches Norfolk Academy students in grades 1 through 12 through numerous classes and programs.

He introduces Lower School students through 6th grade to classical ballet, jazz and contemporary tap. Watson said he also places a priority on implementing non-traditional dance instruction, such as kinesthetic learning, in which educators teach academic subjects through the means of physical activity.

Outside of the classroom, Watson sponsors an intramural dance team, choreographs the annual winter musical and spring concert, offers flexibility training for athletes and, like during his first stint at Norfolk Academy, coordinates

summer enrichment camps. And that’s to say nothing of his deep involvement in dance programming through local institutions, including his own troupe.

Through more than 30 years of the growth at Norfolk Academy, Watson has remained inspired by the transformative power of the teacher-student relationship.

In 2014, Norfolk Academy alumnus Dustin Fink was in the top 25 of the class of graduating seniors from Stanford University’s School of Humanities and Sciences, entitling him to invite one teacher from his primary education who had most influenced him. He chose Watson.

“When Dustin spoke about me, it wasn’t that I was a great dance teacher,” said Watson. “It was about listening.

“For me, that shows how important it is to be in the moment with every child.”

Andrea Frazer

Chesapeake Bay Academy ANDREA FRAZER REMEMBERS one student very well. He was struggling in his core academic classes and it was taking a toll on his self-esteem. But this student found his stride – and personal achievement – in the saxophone. Band class was an escape from the frustrations he encountered elsewhere.

“For him, band served as a reminder that he could be successful,” Frazer said. “He always left class with his head held high.”

Frazer is band director at Chesapeake Bay Academy, a private school in Virginia Beach that serves more than 100 students from kindergarten to 12th grade who have obstacles to learning such as dyslexia and fine motor dysfunction.

Yet these challenges do not hinder progress. Frazer finds that music provides a special opportunity for students’ development by combining sensory and scholastic experiences available by few other means.

Frazer, a native of the U.S. Virgin Islands and a Norfolk State University graduate, began Chesapeake Bay Academy’s music program six years ago with the help of local shop Ego Music, as well as school colleagues and students eager to participate.

That support and passion for music serves the student population of Chesapeake Bay Academy well. Research shows that learning music helps with brain development, language comprehension, reasoning and hand-eye coordination, she said, all of which helps boost performance in other classes.

The school’s band includes about 25 to 30 students in any given year, but stages a full range of brass, woodwind and percussion instruments. The group performs at school functions such as homecoming and pep rallies, as well as in the community at Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay and Sentara Leigh Hospital.

The band’s intimate size gives Frazer and assistant band director Fred Williams the opportunity to devote one-on-one attention to the budding musicians.

That individual instruction that enables students navigating learning disabilities to flourish using a range of techniques and the small class size allows Frazer and Williams to tailor instruction to what works best for individual students.

Having it all come together seamlessly is gratifying for students and teachers alike, according to Frazer. “They all read music differently, but you would never know that. When we perform we are all beautifully in sync.”

| WEDNESDAY, 08.15.18 | Advertising Supplement to The Virginian-Pilot | YOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE EDUCATION | 5

Jacki and Suzanne Voorhies St. Patrick Catholic School AT ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC SCHOOL, teaching art is a family affair. Suzanne Voorhies is an art teacher in the school’s fine arts department and her daughter, Jacki Voorhies, teaches art and is the department chair. “She’s been my boss since the day she was born,� said Suzanne Voorhies. “Now it’s just a little more formal.�

Mother and daughter share a passion for art in all its forms, and aim to instill that love with all of the Norfolk school’s 400-plus students in kindergarten through 8th grade.

The school’s art curriculum rests on a foundation of art history, according to the Voorhieses. That imparts an understanding of the artistic techniques the students will employ throughout their time at the school. When students leave St. Patrick for high school, there are 40 artists or art movements they can recognize.

Kehinde Wiley had long been one of the artists St. Patrick students studied. Earlier this year, they were surprised when officials revealed he had painted the official presidential portrait of Barack Obama. “They thought we were kind of cool for

knowing about him before everyone else did,� said Suzanne Voorhies.

St. Patrick’s fine arts faculty place a priority on creating a genuine art studio experience for the students, said Jacki Voorhies. They enter class, put on a smock and take a seat on a stool, just as a professional or avocational artist would. The students work with a wide range of materials, such as acrylic and oil paints, charcoal for drawings and fibers for making jewelry.

St. Patrick students don’t just get a range of experiences in the visual arts; they rotate through the school’s theater and music programs as well. “Our students don’t have to choose between music, theater and art,� said Jacki Voorhies. “They get to experience it all.�

The idea is that students will be able not only to appreciate art in all its forms, but they’ll also glean life lessons from the process of creating it, such as readiness in problem solving and project management, said Jacki Voorhies. “Not every student is going to become a great artist, but all of them are going to be able to appreciate the arts.�

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6 | YOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE EDUCATION | Advertising Supplement to The Virginian-Pilot | WEDNESDAY, 08.15.18 |

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A PRIVATE SCHOOL

WHY ENROLL A CHILD IN AN INDEPENDENT PRIVATE SCHOOL? The reasons cited repeatedly by the thousands of families that

send their children to private schools include individual attention, smaller classes, teacher excellence and high academic standards.

STEP 1: WEIGH THE BENEFITS A STUDY conducted by the U.S. Department of Education confirmed that larger percentages of students in independent schools are enrolled in advanced courses than in public schools.

The study also found that students at independent private schools: ď Ž

ď Ž

Do twice as much homework as their counterparts.

Watch two-thirds as much television.

ď Ž

Are more likely to participate in varsity or intramural sports.

ď Ž

Are more likely to agree that students and teachers get along well, that discipline is fair and that teaching is good.

STEP 2: MAKE A LIST OF POTENTIAL SCHOOLS

The kinds of schools Although schools that are members of the National Association of Independent Schools set high standards and emphasize values, they are distinct from one another.

There are day and boarding schools, coeducational schools, girls’ schools and boys’ schools. Enrollment varies from a few dozen to a few thousand students. Some independent schools are centuries old; others have been around only a decade.

Some are progressive; others are more traditional in structure.

Many schools excel at rigorous intellectual preparation; others are dedicated to average learners. Some specialize in teaching bright students with learning disabilities. – National Association of Independent Schools

YOU’VE DECIDED THAT PRIVATE EDUCATION is right for your child.

Now you have to pick a school, and the options are many. Here are some questions to consider as you make your decision and a list of materials to request from each school on your list.

Questions to consider These questions can help you decide which school is right for your child: ď Ž

Would your child enjoy a small or large school?

ď Ž

Would your child flourish at a traditional or progressive school?

ď Ž

Should the school be coeducational or single-sex?

ď Ž

Should it be a day school or a boarding school?

ď Ž

What special programs – such as arts, sports or computers – are important to your child?

ď Ž

Is a diverse school community important to you and your family?

ď Ž

Does your child have special needs or interests?

School materials to request After determining your priorities, order and review catalogs from a number of schools. Here are some questions to start with as you look through each school’s materials: ď Ž

Is the school accredited, and by whom?

ď Ž

What is the school’s mission, and does its philosophy appeal to you?

ď Ž

Are academics rigorous?

ď Ž

Is the environment competitive?

Nurturing? Are there high expectations?

ď Ž

Does the school meet your child’s needs?

ď Ž

How large is the school and its student body?

ď Ž

Where is the school located, and what are your transportation options?

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| WEDNESDAY, 08.15.18 | Advertising Supplement to The Virginian-Pilot | YOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE EDUCATION | 7

STEP 3: SCHEDULE VISITS AND ASK QUESTIONS THE LIST OF potential schools has been made, and now it’s time to schedule school visits. Plan to go to several campuses. When you go, ask lots of questions. During the interview, take time to honestly discuss your child’s candidacy as well as to ask any unanswered questions, such as:

Parental & student involvement 

How, and how often, does the school communicate with families?



Can parents call or e-mail teachers when they need to?



Do the students seem productive, engaged and happy?



How does the school measure individual achievement – through grades, portfolio review or something else?

STEP 4: APPLY TO SCHOOLS

Faculty background 

What are the backgrounds and experiences of the faculty?



What’s the student-teacher ratio in your child’s grade?



Is the faculty diverse enough to provide a variety of role models?



Does the school provide its teachers with professional development?

General questions 









Is the campus clean, welllighted and secure?

Does the school feel like a community?

Do students interact with teachers outside and inside the classroom?

What counseling and support services are offered for students?

What is the school’s attrition rate?

Come experience the impact a Catholic education will have on your child’s future!

Fostering Values • Nurturing Intellect • Shaping Character

SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY!

Contact our Admissions Department at admissions@chsvb.org or call 757-467-2679.

Visit chsvb.org for more information.

BISHOP SULLIVAN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL 4552 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462

IT’S A GOOD IDEA to apply to several schools so you and your child have options about which one to attend. After you visit several schools, create a short list of those you wish to pursue.

Complete the application forms for those schools, and that will trigger the rest of the admission process.

Application requirements Most schools require a complete application on file before they decide who to admit.

The following items are typically part of the process: 

A completed application form.



The most recent academic transcript with grades.



Past standardized testing results.



Teacher recommendations.



Results of a standardized admission test, a schooladministered entrance exam or both.

Other requirements Depending on the applicant’s age, some independent schools might ask for other materials, such as: 

Parent statements.



Student writing samples.



Artwork portfolios.



Specialized testing, such as results of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children.



Elementary schools often require other forms of evaluation, such as teacher observations, school-administered group tests or diagnostic tests for young children.

8 | YOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE EDUCATION | Advertising Supplement to The Virginian-Pilot | WEDNESDAY, 08.15.18 |

PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN HAMPTON ROADS

Atlantic Shores Christian School, accredited, age 3 to 12th grade, 1217 N. Centerville Turnpike (secondary campus), 479-9598; 1861 Kempsville Road, Virginia Beach (elementary campus), 479-1125; www.shoreschristian.org

Cornerstone Christian School, age 3 through fifth grade, 1212 Willow Ave., 424-7230, www.cornerstonechristianschool.us

Cathedral of Faith Christian School, age 2½ to second grade, 2020 Portlock Road, 545-8050, www.cathedraloffaithcs.org

Faith Diamond Christian Academy, age 3 to seventh grade, 1023 Deep Creek Blvd., 487-1800, www.faithdiamond.org/newacademy.html

Cedar Road Christian Academy, age 2 to fifth grade, 916 Cedar Road, 547-9553, www.cedarroad christianacademy.com

Great Bridge Christian Academy, age 3 to 10th grade, 700 Mount Pleasant Road, 482-4688, www.greatbridgechristianacademy.org

Centerville Baptist Preschool & Kindergarten, age 2 to kindergarten, 908 Centerville Turnpike South, 482-4466, www.centerville baptistpreschool.com

Great Hope Baptist School, preschool to 12th grade, 1401 S. Battlefield Blvd., 482-5121, www.greathopebaptist.org

Chesapeake Montessori School, infant to age 12, 2013 Scenic Pkwy., 547-7673; 516 Albemarle Drive, 410-9474; www. chesapeakemontessorischool.org

Indian Creek Welcome Independent Baptist Church School, kindergarten to 12th grade, 1200 Kempsville Road, 547-3552, www. indiancreek-welcomebaptist.com/SCHOOL.html

Churchland Christian Academy, ages 2 to 8, before and/or after care, ages 5 to 8, 4249 Taylor Road, 484-8783.

Messiah Preschool, ages 2 to 5, 411 Dominion Blvd. S., 549-1824, www.facebook.com/ MessiahPreschool Montessori Laboratory School, ages 3 to 9, 1101 Madison Plaza, 548-8762, www.montessorilabschool.com Mount Lebanon Christian Academy, age 2½ to second grade, 884 Bells Mill Road, 547-9550, www.themountacademy.org/ Mount Pleasant Christian School, kindergarten to eighth grade, 1613 Mount Pleasant Road, 482-9557, www.mtpleasantchristian.org

Greenbrier Christian Academy, accredited, preschool to 12th grade, 311 Kempsville Road, 547-9595, www.gcagators.org

Primrose School at Cahoon Commons, accredited, preschool, 660 Grassfield Pkwy., 842-6589, www.primroseschools.com/ OurSchools/Virginia/SouthHamptonRoads/ Chesapeake/CahoonCommons

Greenbrier Enrichment Center and School, 825 Greenbrier Pkwy., preschool to fifth grade, 548-9280, www.gecschool.org

Children’s Harbor – Chesapeake, accredited, 18 months to 5 years (before- and after-school care for ages 5-12), 2400 Strawberry Lane, 543-4221, www.childrensharbor.cc

Greenbrier Montessori School, ages 2 to 12, 1100 Greenbrier Pkwy., 549-8584, www.greenbriermontessori.com

Churchland Baptist Preschool, ages 3 and 4, 3031 Churchland Blvd., 484-2351, www.churchlandbaptist.org

Hickory Ridge Academy, pre-k through 12th grade, 3320 Battlefield Blvd. S., 421-7500, hrcc7.org/hickory-ridge-academy/

Imagination Individuality Integrity Character Leadership Just a few of the reasons to choose an independent education for your child.

Promote Family Preschool & Childcare, preschool and kindergarten, 304 Newberry Drive, 410-1797, www.promotefamily.org Providence Christian School and Day Care, age 2½ to sixth grade, 501 Providence Road, 523-6480, www.providence-baptist.com

StoneBridge School, accredited, age 4 to 12th grade, 1629 Jolliff Road, 488-2214, www.stonebridgeschool.com Tidewater Adventist Academy, accredited, kindergarten to eighth grade, 1136 N. Centerville Turnpike, 479-0002, www.adventisteducation.com Veritas Collegiate Academy, kindergarten to 12th grade, 700 Oak Grove Road, 410-5095, www.veritasca.com

NORFOLK Alpha Beta Cappa Christian Academy, age 2 to fourth grade, 7425 Chesapeake Blvd., 857-5215 The Barry Robinson Center, accredited, kindergarten to 12th grade, residential treatment center for children with emotional, behavioral and substance abuse problems, 443 Kempsville Road, 455-6100, www.barryrobinson.org BINA High School, accredited, 9th grade to 12th grade, girls, 425 Washington Park, 627-2462, binahighschool.com Building Blocks Preschool, ages 16 months to 6 years, preschool and kindergarten.

844 Jerome Ave., 583-6389, www. buildingblocksnorfolkva.com

Find out why independent schools are leading the way in Hampton Roads.

Learn more by contacting them: CHESAPEAKE BAY ACADEMY 821 Baker Road Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (757) 497-6200 cba-va.org Grades: K - 12

HAMPTON ROADS ACADEMY 739 Academy Lane Newport News, VA 23602 (757) 884-9148 hra.org Grades: PK - 12

NORFOLK CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS 255 Thole Street Norfolk, VA 23505 (757) 423-5770 norfolkchristian.org Grades: PK - 12

CHRISTOPHER ACADEMY 3300 Cedar Lane Portsmouth, VA 23703 (757) 484-6776 christopher-academy.org Grades: Preschool - 5th Grade

HEBREW ACADEMY OF TIDEWATER 5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Suite 180 Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (757) 424-4327 hebrewacademy.net Grades: Preschool - 5th Grade

NORFOLK COLLEGIATE SCHOOL 7336 Granby Street Norfolk, VA 23505 (757) 480-1495 norfolkcollegiate.org Grades: PK - 12

FRIENDS SCHOOL 1537 Laskin Road Virginia Beach, VA 23451 (757) 428-7534 friends-school.org Grades: PK - 12

NORFOLK ACADEMY 1585 Wesleyan Drive Norfolk, VA 23502 (757) 455-5582 norfolkacademy.org Grades: 1 - 12

THE WILLIAMS SCHOOL 419 Colonial Avenue Norfolk, VA 23507 (757) 627-1383 thewilliamsschool.org Grades: K - 8

For more information about VAIS: www.VAIS.org |

VAIS.org |

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| WEDNESDAY, 08.15.18 | Advertising Supplement to The Virginian-Pilot | YOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE EDUCATION | 9

Calvary Christian Elementary School, accredited, preschool to fifth grade, 2331 E. Little Creek Road, 480-4400, www.ccesnorfolk.org Children’s Harbor – Ghent, accredited, age 6 weeks to 5 years, before- and after-school care for ages 5 to 12, 1900 Llewellyn Ave., 622-0900, www.childrensharbor.cc

Leaping and Learning Child Development Center LLC, ages 2-5 for daycare and pre-kindergarten, before- and after-school care for ages 5-12, 7036 Chesapeake Blvd., 857-6659, www. bankstchurch.org Lighthouse Christian Academy, age 2½ to 12th grade, 5160 Beamon Road, 855-3563, lighthousechristiannorfolk.com

Christ the King School, accredited, age 3 to eighth grade, 3401 Tidewater Drive, 625-4951, www.ctkparish.org

McDonald Montessori, ages 2½ to 9, 4200 Granby St., 423-1800, www.mcdonaldmontessori.com

East Beach Montessori School, ages 2 to 9, includes pre-K through third grade, 4491 Pleasant Ave., 739-5626, www.ebmschool.com

McLea Day School Age 2½ to sixth grade, 745 Bancker Road, 587-7841, www.facebook.com/ pages/McLea-School/118845048155436

Faith Academy School of Excellence, accredited, preschool to 10th grade, 1010 East 26th St., 6241724, www.faseeagles.org

Norfolk Academy, accredited, first grade to 12th grade, 1585 Wesleyan Drive, accredited, 461-6236, www.norfolkacademy.org

First Presbyterian Preschool, ages six weeks to kindergarten, 820 Colonial Ave., 625-0667, www.fpcnorfolk.org/

Norfolk Christian Schools, accredited, pre-K to 12th grade; Lower School Norfolk campus, 7000 Granby St., 423-5812; Lower School Virginia Beach campus, 1265 Laskin Road, 428-1284; Upper School, 255 Thole St., 423-5770, www.norfolkchristian.org

Ghent Montessori School, age 2 to eighth grade, 610 Mowbray Arch, 622-8174, www.ghentmontessorischool.com Greenhill Farms Christian Academy, accredited, preschool to fifth grade, 969 Philpotts Road, 853-0111, www.facebook.com/pages/The-GreenhillFarms-Christian-Academy/110658805672523 Kempsville Academy of Kempsville Center for Behavioral Health, accredited, ages 7 to 17, residential treatment center, 860 Kempsville Road, 461-4565, kempsvillecbh.com

Norfolk Collegiate School, accredited, pre-K to 12th grade, 7336 Granby St., Norfolk (upper and middle school); 5429 Tidewater Drive, Norfolk (lower school), 480-1495, www.norfolkcollegiate.org Ocean View Christian Academy, Age 2 to 12th grade, 9504 Selby Place, 583-1808, www.ovcacademy.com

Old Dominion University Child Center, accredited, preschool to pre-kindergarten, ODU 139 Child Study Center, 683-3081, www.odu.edu/cdc Park Place School, third grade to fifth grade, for at-risk children from low-income families, 509 W. 35th St., 624-3473.

READY Academy Christian School, age 3 to fifth grade, 450 E. Bute St., 622-5650, www.readyacademy.org Ryan Academy of Norfolk, first grade to 12th grade, 844 Jerome Ave., 583-6283, www.ryanacademy.org Saint Patrick Catholic School, accredited, pre-K to eighth grade, 1000 Bolling Ave., 440-5500, www.stpcs.org St. Pius X Catholic School, accredited, age 3 to eighth grade, 7800 Halprin Drive, 588-6171, www.stpiusxschoolva.org Tabernacle of Prayer Christian School, pre-K to 12th grade, 3611 Colley Ave., 625-4977 Talmudical Academy of Norfolk, accredited, ninth grade to 12th grade, boys, 612 Colonial Ave., 623-6070, www.yeshivasaishkodesh.com

PORTSMOUTH Abby’s Ark Early Learning Center, pre-K to K, 601 Washington Street, 393-5818, abbysarkearlylearningcenter.com Alliance Christian Academy, accredited, age 3 to 12th grade, 5809 Portsmouth Blvd., 488-5552, www.alliancechristianacademy.net Central Christian Academy, accredited, preschool to sixth grade, 1200 Hodges Ferry Road, 488-4477, www.centralchristianacademy.com Children’s Harbor – Olde Towne, accredited, 6 weeks to 5 years, (before- and after-school care for ages 5-12 years), 620 London Street, 397-2980, www.childrensharbor.cc Christopher Academy, accredited, age 3 to fifth grade, 3300 Cedar Lane, 484-6776, www.christopher-academy.org Court Street Academy, age 3 to eighth grade, 447 Court St., 393-2312, www.courtstreetacademy.com Green Acres Preschool, ages 3 and 4, 3135 Hanley Ave., 484-5125, www.greenacrespc. org/beyond-sunday/green-acres-preschool/

Town and Country Day School Age 2 to sixth grade, 1421 Kempsville Road, 461-5456, www.townandcountrydayschool.com

Harbor Point Behavioral Health Center, accredited, ages 8 to 21, residential treatment center, 301 Fort Lane, 393-0061, harborpointbhc.com

The Williams School, accredited, kindergarten to eighth grade, 419 Colonial Ave., 627-1383, www.thewilliamsschool.org

Joyous Sound Education and Enrichment Center, age 2 to third grade, 205 Gust Lane, 558-2880 Montessori Preparatory School, ages 2 to 5, 4811 High St. W, 484-7229, www.montessoriprep.com