2026-2027 GUIDE To
BALTIMORE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
Look no further... The tri-school community has it ALL! Together, The Bryn Mawr School, Gilman, and Roland Park Country School are the tri-schools, offering: •
Single-sex foundation in lower and middle schools, with coed activities, including book clubs, mixers, nature walks, and tri-school spirit celebrations
•
Co-ed classes in upper school, plus theater productions, global travel, affinity group events, and clubs
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Combined 150+ electives available to upper school students
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Coordinated transportation service, calendars, and communications
Learn how one community of three schools can open up infinite opportunities! brynmawrschool.org gilman.edu rpcs.org
Built for the Rhythm of Daily Life
410.823.6666 SUNNYFIELDSCABINETRY.COM 6305 FALLS RD. SUITE 100 BALTIMORE, MD 21209 Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 1
2026-2027 GUIDE TO BALTIMORE INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS Publisher: Nicole Allen Editor-in-Chief: David Nitkin Advertising Executive: Julie Sawyer Contributor: Marian McCusker Graphic Designer: Julie M. Kichline Photographer: Whitney Wasson Baltimore Fishbowl Founder: Susan Gerardo Dunn The Baltimore Fishbowl Guide to Baltimore Independent schools is published annually by Indicia Media, publishers of baltimorefishbowl.com. TO ADVERTISE, CONTACT Nicole Allen at nicole@baltimorefishbowl.com Julie Sawyer at julie@baltimorefishbowl.com
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Dear Readers, The Baltimore region has a rich tradition of quality independent schools. Some have roots in religious or spiritual philosophies, while many are secular. Regardless of their orientations, these schools are universally inclusive of students who enroll there, and seek to educate the complete person. Likewise, we design our annual Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools to be inclusive in how these schools are presented. In the pages of this guide, our 11th edition, you can find valuable information about the region’s many schools, their key leaders and their strengths and unique offerings.
TABLE OF CONTENTS EDITORIAL 14 The Right Fit:
Finding and Hiring Teachers and Staff Who Inspire
26 Independent
Schools are Learning to Make the Most of AI
Baltimore Fishbowl takes pride in the stories that are included in the Guide, which examine timely topics confronting independent school communities. Readers can learn more about the various thoughtful approaches schools are taking as they grapple with artificial intelligence in classroom settings. They are trying to strike the right balance, moving neither too quickly nor too slowly — a challenging task in a rapidly changing world. Finding the right staff is another challenge for any organization, and another story this year looks at how independent schools recruit and retain the best teachers as they seek the right fit and best match for their cultures. Beyond academics, we also explore some of the more interesting extracurricular activities offered by the region’s schools, recognizing that learning and development take place in many shapes. We hope this guide captures the full spectrum and richness of our region’s independent schools. The team at Baltimore Fishbowl loves producing the Guide to Baltimore Independent Schools, and we hope you enjoy reading it.
38 Have an Unusual
Hobby? Join the Club!
SPONSORED School Spirit
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19 Leadership Profiles 29 Program Spotlights 47
Campus Views
58
Independent School Directory
David Nitkin Baltimore Fishbowl Executive Editor Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 3
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BETH TFILOH DAHAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL
The
POWER of
LEARNING
Teaching the scholars of today to be the leaders of tomorrow. Preschool-12th grade BethTfiloh.com/admissions Join us for a small group tour. Register here: Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 5
Be Magical.
Be Mercy. Join us for our
Open House Saturday, October 17
10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Scan to register! Sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy High School is the only all girls school in the Archdiocese of Baltimore authorized to offer the International Baccalaureate Program. 1300 East Northern Parkway Baltimore, Maryland 21239 www.mercyhighschool.com
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school spirit Local independent school students share what they love most about their schools.
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Arts & Ideas Sudbury School
Arts & Ideas Sudbury School approaches education differently. With a daily schedule that each student creates for themselves, students at A&I are free to learn, explore, and reflect at their own pace in a way that works best for them. Through that freedom, young people become confident, selfdirected, and deeply engaged with the world around them. Eleanor started at A&I when she was 6 years old. Now 13, she gives tours to prospective families as a Tour Clerk. When she first started at A&I, she remembers thinking the older students were cool and that she loved coming to school. She still does.
“What I think of it now is that it’s a great place that I love coming to. It’s a place where I can ask questions and figure things out.” She says, “My biggest lessons that I will take away from my experience here are learning to be part of a community and give back to it.” Edith, age 6, recently saw a student break a rule and wrote them up for the Judicial Committee (JC). At JC, students meet to hear everyone’s side, discuss whether a rule was broken, and decide the outcome together. Anyone can write anyone else up, and everyone takes a turn on JC. Edith likes JC because she can “solve things out” with her peers. Eleanor likes that “everyone has a voice and can have their opinion heard.”
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Ra’Hye, who is almost 8 years old, loves field trips and hanging out with the chickens. His advice to prospective students is simple: “You are going to love it here. It is amazing… you are going to make a lot of friends.” Arts & Ideas Sudbury School believes children are important people. Through autonomy, authentic democracy, agemixing, and learning through play, students become confident, capable, and extraordinary adults. To learn more, visit www. aisudbury.org
Friends School of Baltimore
Founded in 1784, Friends School of Baltimore is an independent Quaker school serving students from pre-K through grade 12, with Little Friends, an early learning center for children ages 6 weeks to 4 years. In a world where information is abundant but wisdom is scarce, Friends provides a human-centered education that prepares students to navigate complexity, work across differences, and lead with integrity. Through academic rigor, reflective inquiry, creative challenge, and meaningful collaboration, students are prepared for college and equipped for life. Seniors and Senate Co-Presidents Rhys B. and Ellie O. exemplify that experience through their leadership and commitment to their community.
For Rhys, Friends has been a place to explore his passions while learning from people with different perspectives. During his six years at the school, he has found community on the lacrosse field, in music ensembles, as a student government representative, and as a leader of both the Quaketones a cappella group and Model United Nations. More than any one activity, though, it is the school’s culture that has left the greatest impression. “The Quaker values are an aspect of the school that shapes students,” Rhys says. “The community always feels like a safe environment, and there are so many walks of life, yet we all connect and come together in such a great way.”
Ellie has grown up at Friends and discovered that leadership begins with listening. Whether captaining the field hockey and lacrosse teams, mentoring younger students as a Peer Educator and tutor, or serving as Senate Co-President, she values opportunities to build connections across the community. She credits Friends’ discussion-based classrooms with helping her find her voice. “Teachers don’t just lecture; they encourage students to ask questions, share ideas, and actively participate in their learning,” she says. “Every student’s voice is heard and valued.” Although their interests are different, Rhys and Ellie share an appreciation for a school that values every voice and prepares students to lead lives of purpose.
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mercy high School
For 65 years, Mercy High School has empowered Mercy Girls as they take risks, develop their voices, and pursue their passions without limitations. A Mercy education reflects academic excellence, compassionate leadership, and a lifelong sisterhood in a way that is uniquely magical. Mercy Senior Amanda A. believes that the school’s caring faculty and staff have helped her realize her fullest potential through its International Baccalaureate (IB) Program. Amanda notes, “Participating in the IB Program has been very rewarding and fulfilling, and has continued to challenge me academically and helped me grow as a learner.” Senior Kelly D. also noted the IB Program is a “game changer,” helping her to “think more critically
by creating connections and developing my own personal understandings of what I’m learning.” Mercy has long been a leader in helping students create connections through experiential learning. Unique pathways to research, internships, service, travel, and more are available to every Mercy Girl. “There are so many opportunities to get involved through clubs, athletics, leadership, and service. Mercy also encourages students to explore their interests while preparing them for college and life after high school,” says Amanda. Kelly noted, “I have been challenged to be more creative and develop skills that will help me no matter where I go or what I do, and at Mercy, I’m supported every step of the way.”
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While reflecting on the sisterhood, both girls noted how proud they are to be Mercy Girls. Amanda and Kelly both spoke of a strong sense of community and a “family” atmosphere cultivated through Mercy’s Big Sister-Little Sister Program, Adviser Program that pairs each student with a caring faculty mentor over four years, and numerous opportunities to connect with a strong alumnae network. Amanda said, “If you’re willing to step outside of your comfort zone, you’ll find a community that supports your growth and helps you become the best version of yourself.” Kelly agreed, saying, “Everyone has a place where they belong at Mercy. I have found my family, and I always feel supported.”
notre dame preparatory school
If there’s one thing Emma H. ’27 and Maddie L. ’31 can agree upon, it’s that Notre Dame Preparatory School is a place rich in opportunity and community. The Catholic, independent school for girls in grades 6–12 was founded on the conviction that education can transform lives, and in turn, the world. Established in 1873 by the School Sisters of Notre Dame, who continue to sponsor the school, NDP is steadfast in its commitment to combining strong academics, spiritual formation, and the practice of justice to offer girls countless opportunities for confidencebuilding, leadership, and personal growth. Co-founding “Prep Perspectives,” the school’s student-run podcast, is one
such opportunity that Emma has fully embraced. She and her co-host sit down with NDP students, teachers, and administrators every month to discuss traditions, events, and issues important to the school. “Prep Perspectives” is just one way Emma, who also leads the Latin & Hispanic Student Union and is an Admissions Ambassador, contributes to the strong sense of community that defines Notre Dame Prep. “NDP is welcoming, with students and faculty who try to include others and create a supportive environment,” she says. “These qualities make the school feel both spirited and like a place where everyone can belong.” Maddie experiences that same sense of belonging in NDP’s Middle Level, which
has been uniquely designed to address the academic and social development of middleschool-aged girls. For her, club activities, sports, and playing the cello have allowed her to foster talents and explore new interests. She especially values daily Advisory, a holistically developed program that affords dedicated time to study skills, group discussions, and sisterhood activities. “Everyone wants you to do your best,” says Maddie. “You’re given lots of opportunities to be a leader, and there’s something for everyone here.” For both Emma and Maddie, Notre Dame Prep has proven to be the right place—with the right support—for them to be curious, take intellectual risks, try new things, and grow into the best versions of themselves.
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the st. paul's Schools
Three small schools with big opportunities. The unique model at The St. Paul’s Schools offers students a tightknit community across grades and schools, while providing access to unparalleled opportunities found on a larger campus. Students Lana, a fourth grader in the lower school, Wallis, an eighth grader at the girls’ school, and James, a senior at the boys’ school, share the aspects of St. Paul’s that make them excited to go to school every day. Fourth grader Lana loves the warm, welcoming community that defines St. Paul’s. She especially enjoys art class and treasures time spent reading in the lower school’s cozy reading nooks or swinging with friends at recess. One of her favorite memories from this year was visiting the Baltimore Museum of Industry, while the lower school science room—with its garden and chicken coop—remains her favorite place on campus. Through her experiences at St. Paul’s, Lana has learned the value of perseverance. “The biggest
lesson I have learned is that I can do hard things,” she says. Eighth grader Wallis fills her school days with a variety of extracurricular involvements, competing in basketball, field hockey, and lacrosse while serving as Spirit Representative for student government and welcoming prospective families to St. Paul’s through the Green Key Club. She loves the friendships she has built in middle school, and you will often find her socializing in Gator Alley with her classmates. “Our school has such a big community, and you are never alone—you always have support.” Whether competing in the annual, beloved Puttin’ on the Hits dance-off or enjoying the view atop the St. Paul’s hill during lunch, Wallis’ enthusiasm and love for her school is apparent. “The thing I appreciate most about St. Paul’s is being able to come to school each day knowing I’ll have fun every day and learn at the same time.” Senior James has made the most of every opportunity during his time at St. Paul’s, serving
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as captain of the varsity cross country and indoor track teams, junior class president, all-school vice president, and president of Asian Pacific Islander Student Alliance. “Don’t close yourself off or be nervous,” says James, who also volunteers with Bridges Baltimore, sings with the Concert Chorale, and tutors middle school students. “The best things come from opening up, meeting new people, and building new relationships.” Whether cheering alongside classmates at rivalry pep rallies or sampling recipes during the annual Chili CookOff, James appreciates the traditions that bring the St. Paul’s community together. The tight-knit community is enhanced by St. Paul’s teacher-coach model—allowing teachers to get to know students both in and out of the classroom. “My track coach for the past five years was also my 8th grade math teacher, and his mentorship has had a significant impact on my growth.” To learn more about the St. Paul’s community, visit stpaulsmd.org.
Lead, Create, and Innovate Learn More Now! GIRLS’ DAY, K-12 / COED PRESCHOOL GIRLS’ NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL BOARDING, GRADES 8-12 300 Garrison Forest Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117
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The Right Fit: Inspire Finding and Hiring Teachers and Staff who
By David Nitkin
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Teaching is, famously, a challenging profession, known for long hours, major responsibilities and limited pay. But the rewards are high: Teachers can inspire their students, providing challenges and encouragement that sometimes shape young lives in profoundly positive ways. Research by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) indicates that independent schools provide better work-life balance than other types of schools, lowering the day-to-day stress of teachers and allowing them to have a greater impact while maintaining their own well-being. Those are some of the benefits touted by leaders at independent schools throughout Baltimore, who must recruit and retain teachers and staff in a fast-changing environment with competing demands. In any given year, larger independent schools may have dozens of positions to fill, and are competing with many other employers — at other Baltimorearea schools and beyond. Smaller schools might have fewer openings but still need to find the right people for important roles. To fill those jobs, these schools reach out to both young teachers just entering the profession and career-changers with deep experience who are entering the classroom for the first time. Some disciplines are tough to fill, while others draw many applicants. Schools rely on word of mouth, job boards and national recruiting firms as they search for educators who will thrive and change lives. In Maryland, more late-career candidates are moving into education than in the past, in part because thousands of highly skilled federal workers have lost their jobs in administration cutbacks. The so-called feds-to-eds pipeline “has been a noticeable trend,” said Alicia Grogan, manager
of human resources at Baltimore’s Notre Dame Preparatory School. “As an educational institution dedicated to lifelong learning, we need to be open to nontraditional pathways to education and give these professionals the resources they need to succeed in this new environment.” Clark Wight, president of the St. Paul’s Schools in Baltimore, said career changers, from the federal government or elsewhere, can make some of the best teachers. “Whether it's military or business or finance, some professionals in their later years realize that their soul has never responded to the work they’ve been doing, but they're at the age they want to give back,” Wight said. “They come into our school environments and become some of the best teachers I've ever seen.” St. Paul’s Schools recently created a fellowship program, designed for those who may be interested in the teaching profession or are new to teaching. Demand was overwhelming. “We had 134 applicants,” Wight said. “We had 55-year-olds applying, we had 22-year-olds apply, we had everybody in between. We had someone who'd been in the firefighting force for 20 years, and said they have always wanted to be a teacher, and this is a perfect opportunity.” At Notre Dame Prep, the number of open positions created by retirement, relocation or career change each year has been trending downward, said Grogan, the human resources manager. “Math and science teachers are the most difficult to replace,” she said. The school takes a comprehensive approach to recruitment, which involves sharing what the work is like and what the institution’s values are. “We have a 360-degree process in which the head of school, administrators, teachers and department chairs share in the work of recruitment and retention,” Grogan said. “Our team works together to communicate to candidates a day in the life of a teacher at Notre Dame Prep. That includes not only information about academic responsibilities, but also about school mission, values and culture.” New teachers enter into a first-year teacher-mentor program. “Seasoned teachers need to become familiar with NDP school culture, while teachers new to the profession need more guidance with day-to-day duties,” Grogan said. “We feel this is a great way for each respective teacher to get the specific resources they need to be successful.” Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 15
Clark Wight, president of The St. Paul’s Schools in Baltimore, works with young students. Photo credit: The St. Paul's Schools.
At McDonogh School, administrators say they have a relatively low turnover rate. “Upper-level elective positions are among the more challenging positions to fill,” said Janet Graham, chief human resources officer at McDonogh. That’s part of a broader national trend, she said. “Individuals with advanced expertise have many options, including highly competitive opportunities in the private sector. “Attracting them to a school setting requires not only competitive compensation but a compelling case for why teaching at McDonogh offers something those other paths cannot,” Graham said, including “the chance to work with motivated students, the autonomy to teach with creativity and depth, and the satisfaction of being part of a community where their expertise genuinely matters.” The best recruitment tool at McDonogh, Graham said, is word of mouth. The candidates they want receive this pitch: “McDonogh's academic strength, focus on mission, and culture
of community and belonging are genuine differentiators,” Graham said. “Prospective candidates who visit our campus quickly see that McDonogh is a place where educators build long, meaningful careers with collaborative colleagues. Together, they mentor students in the classroom, on the fields and courts, and on the stages, inspiring them to give more than they take in the world.” She said the school prides itself on professional growth and development, grants for summer learning, and opportunities to earn advanced degrees. Maryland’s independent schools also get applicants from Maryland’s public school system, where teacher pay tends to be higher, but educators are seeking smaller class sizes, less burnout and an environment that allows more creativity with fewer bureaucratic headaches. An education reform initiative known as the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future requires a minimum starting salary of
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$60,000 statewide by July 1, 2026. Experienced teachers make significantly more. Public school teachers coming to independent schools are “super expensive, but they're really good,” said Wight, the St. Paul’s president. “They want to get back to why they got into education.” Some younger teachers struggle after a few years, particularly when they realize their salaries may not match those of friends in other professions. But if they get past that hurdle, the rewards are great, Wight said. For the hardest-to-fill positions, Baltimore independent schools must compete nationally, and Baltimore might not be the most popular destination for young teachers. But for those with families, the region offers many advantages, including neighborhoods with attractive housing options. In fact, one source of recruits to teaching at St. Paul's and other schools is hyper-local: parents of students enrolled there. Not only do these parents like the work environment, culture and hours, they also generally receive a tuition benefit for their children. Hearing From The Teachers Teachers themselves offer the best description of what they are looking for in a workplace, and the National Association of Independent Schools has collected and published excerpted answers to the question: “Why do you teach in an independent school?" [Note: each response is from a different educator.] “Not any of my colleagues are here just for the paycheck — they genuinely care about the quality
of the school and the programs offered to the future leaders of our country. No administrator has ever told me I have to use certain books or materials. Nor have I ever been denied the right to try something new or innovative. I feel that I am respected as a professional educator who is trusted to make wise choices for my students. A supportive parent body, colleagues who cooperate and feel like family, and children who come to school eager to learn and curious about the world all combine to make teaching a most pleasant experience.” “Independent schools are places with a sense of community for all of their members…. When all members of the community know they are valued, all the good things we want of a school will grow and flourish.”
“I am surrounded by intelligent, hard-working and well-educated people…I feel I can continue to grow and learn as a person and as an educator.” “I enjoy the freedom to teach using one's own talents and interests…I enjoy the classroom autonomy and the professional trust.” “I feel fortunate to be able to teach in a program that matches my philosophy about how young children learn.” “Teachers in independent schools regard accomplishment and recognition as their reward… Independent schools form a right triangle of the child, the teacher, and the parents: communication, strong values, and a clear mission help that right triangle work.” “In the small classes of independent schools, I have
They genuinely care about the quality of the school and the programs
"
enjoyed knowing my students as individuals and utilizing various methods of teaching to achieve success.” “Our students are motivated, and their parents are supportive. We can be selective of our students: those families who do not agree with our mission do not attend our school.”
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leadership profiles Meet some of the influential leaders making a difference in area independent schools.
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CHRISTOPHER J. POST, HEADMASTER The Boys’ Latin School Of Maryland Christopher J. Post is in his 19th year as Headmaster of The Boys’ Latin School of Maryland. A career educator with more than 30 years of experience in boys’ schools, he began his journey at Boys’ Latin as an intern in the middle school, before returning as headmaster in 2008. A recognized leader in boys’ education, Chris served as the chairman of the International Boys’ School Coalition Board of Trustees, designed and led the Coalition’s Aspiring Leaders Colloquia, and is a frequent speaker on boys’ learning and leadership.
What drew you to a career in education?
Having attended a boys’ school myself, I experienced firsthand the impact that great teachers, coaches and mentors can have on a young person’s life. They knew me better than I knew myself. They challenged me, encouraged me and helped shape the person I would become. That experience inspired me to pursue a career in education. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate that education is about
much more than preparing students for college. It’s about preparing them for life. In a boys’ school, that also means embracing the energy, curiosity and joy that boys bring to the community every day. The laughter in the hallways, the traditions, the friendships and the moments of discovery are all part of what make this work so rewarding. Helping boys discover their strengths, build character and grow into confident, compassionate young men is meaningful work, and it’s a privilege to be part of that journey every day. What qualities set your school apart? Fundamentally, Boys’ Latin is a relationship-driven school. For more than 180 years, we’ve remained focused on one thing: helping boys become their best. From our youngest learners to those preparing for college and life beyond, every aspect of the student experience is designed around who boys are and how boys learn, grow and thrive. Our small class sizes mean every student is truly known, not just by name, but by his strengths, challenges and potential. Our teachers build
meaningful relationships with their students, creating an environment where boys feel supported, challenged and inspired to take intellectual risks. Mentorship is woven into the fabric of school life, helping boys develop confidence, character and a strong sense of belonging. We don’t ask boys to conform to a model of education. We build an education around them. Learn more at boyslatinmd.com.
NATALIA MISTICHELLI, PRESIDENT The Catholic High School Of Baltimore Natalia Mistichelli, proud alumna of the Class of 1990, officially began her tenure as President of The Catholic High School of Baltimore on July 1, 2026. She returns to Catholic High with 20 years of experience in nonprofit development at Catholic Charities of Baltimore. With her commitment to the school’s Franciscan tradition, a strategic growth mindset, and a student-centered approach, Natalia aims to cultivate a transformative educational experience preparing young women to reach their full potential. What drew you to a career in education? The opportunity to serve and lead my alma mater, a school that holds a special place in my heart and
helped build the foundation for the person I am today, is what drew me to a career in education. My goal is to provide the young women at Catholic High with the same educational journey that I had; one that combined service, academics, leadership, and sports which will prepare them for success while creating joy-filled memories and relationships that will last a lifetime. What qualities set your school apart? Catholic High’s small, close-knit community and our educational philosophy that emphasizes the Franciscan values of Reverence, Integrity, Service, Excellence and Stewardship (RISES) are what make our school unique. Our students are challenged academically in a vibrant environment filled with a
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variety of longstanding traditions and student life activities. Through our mission, Catholic High empowers and nurtures young women who will transform our community and world. For more information, visit thecatholichighschool.org.
ANNA FOLLENSBEE, DIRECTOR OF COLLEGE COUNSELING Gilman School Anna Follensbee, a member of Gilman’s College Counseling team since 2013, became Director of College Counseling in the summer of 2026. Prior to Gilman, she spent nine years as a college admissions counselor at Eckerd College, Providence College, and Loyola University Maryland. In addition to college counseling, Anna is an advisor and intramural coach and has taught English and led the Senior Encounter program. Anna is a proud Gilman parent with a son in the class of 2034. College counseling philosophy?
Holistic. We work closely with students to understand their distinctive strengths, accomplishments, and goals as we help them build a college list and craft compelling applications.
Goals for next year?
Though I am fortunate to inherit a wonderful office with a strong team and robust programming, there is always room for growth. I am particularly interested in collaborating more closely with our wellness team to examine how we can best support families through a process that can feel stressful and uncertain. What is fun about working with students?
It is so rewarding to help students engage in a self-reflective process where they consider what is important to them in their next community. That often includes reflecting on what has been meaningful to them about their Gilman experience.
Advice for recent graduates?
Embrace the opportunities and challenges of your next institution! Ultimately, college is what you make of it. Learn more at gilman.edu.
BARBARA MANTLER, EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING COORDINATOR Maryvale Preparatory School Barbara Mantler is a 26-year educator and program leader with extensive experience dedicated to experiential learning. As Experiential Learning Coordinator at Maryvale Preparatory School, she develops partnerships that provide students with yearround internship and shadowing opportunities and serves on the Mitchell Leadership Institute faculty. Barbara holds a Master of Arts in Leadership in Teaching from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland and a Bachelor of Arts in History from St. Mary’s College of Maryland. What qualities set your school apart?
Maryvale is distinguished by its innovative, supportive, and inclusive culture. There is a true “can-do” spirit throughout the school community that encourages creativity and empowers both students and faculty to bring new
ideas to life. The administration is incredibly supportive of initiatives that enhance the student experience, creating an environment where innovation can thrive. I also appreciate Maryvale’s intentional focus on leadership development through the Mitchell Leadership Institute. Students are encouraged to discover their unique strengths and learn the many ways they can serve and lead within their communities, both now and in the future. What are the expectations of students at Maryvale?
Maryvale students expect to be challenged academically while enjoying a supportive and engaging educational experience. The school strikes an intentional balance between rigorous academics and meaningful extracurricular opportunities, allowing students to grow both inside and outside
the classroom. This well-rounded approach helps students develop confidence, leadership skills, and a strong sense of purpose, preparing them to succeed in college and beyond while making a positive impact in their communities. Learn more at maryvale.com.
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MARY BETH LENNON | PRESIDENT Mercy High School As the longest-tenured leader of a Catholic girls school in Baltimore, Mary Beth Lennon is the first alumna of Mercy High School to serve as its president. Ms. Lennon has led the expansion of Mercy’s academic offerings and campus renewal efforts with more than $14 million in major gifts and grants. The Daily Record named Ms. Lennon one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women in 2011, 2015, and 2018, when she was named to their Circle of Excellence.
learning opportunities to explore future careers. Our Mercy Girls can dive into healthcare-related careers through hands-on experiences at Mercy Medical Center and MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital, and our other Signature Programs provide robust internships, service, travel, and leadership training. The result is pure MAGIC! Our Mercy Girls have led among all area Catholic schools in college scholarships per graduating senior for the past four years.
What distinguishes your school from other independent schools in our area?
What are the expectations of students in your school? Be Magical. Be Mercy! We want
The combination of Mercy High School’s International Baccalaureate Program and Signature Programs are redefining the meaning of academic excellence as we provide our Mercy Girls with experiential
our Mercy Girls to take risks, develop their voices, and pursue their passions without limitations! Our leadership team of accomplished and caring woman leaders creates an environment every day where Mercy
Girls can do just that. It’s an honor to watch our Mercy Girls become the Women of Mercy our world needs. For more information visit mercyhighschool.com.
BELLA CURRAN | ACADEMIC DEAN The Odyssey School
Bella Curran, M.S., has been named Academic Dean of The Odyssey School while continuing to serve as the school’s Head of Early Learning. In this role, Bella will provide oversight of curriculum, professional development, and teacher training across the school. During her 10 years at Odyssey, she has also served as Assistant Lower School Head, reading and writing tutor, and summer camp director. Additionally, Bella is an active member of the Odyssey Outreach team, helping to raise awareness of dyslexia in the community.
What drew you to a career in education? As a child, I had a deep appreciation for school, learning, and reading. Books were a source of joy and curiosity for me from an early age. My younger brother had a very different school experience, and I struggled to understand why learning seemed so challenging
for him. Once he was diagnosed with dyslexia and began receiving intervention, I witnessed a remarkable transformation in both his confidence and academic success. Seeing the impact that effective instruction could have on a student’s life inspired me to pursue a career in education. I wanted to help students who face similar challenges develop the skills, confidence, and lifelong love of learning that every child deserves. What sets your school apart? What sets Odyssey apart is our language-rich, highly individualized approach to learning. We believe that all teachers are teachers of language. While students receive 50 minutes of explicit reading and writing instruction each day, literacy development is woven throughout every subject—from math to science to art. Equally important is the sense of belonging students find here. At
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Odyssey, each student is deeply known, valued, and understood. Our teachers recognize how each child learns, and our students are surrounded by peers who share similar experiences. Many families tell us that Odyssey is the first place their child feels truly seen as a learner. For more information, visit theodysseyschool.org.
LARA D. WULFF, Ph.D., HEAD OF SCHOOL Roland Park Country School Lara D. Wulff, Ph.D. joined Roland Park Country School as its 10th Head of School on July 1, 2026, bringing 25 years of experience as an educator and leader. Most recently, she served as the Associate Head of School at Moravian Academy and has also held senior-level teaching and leadership roles at St. Catherine’s School and HoltonArms School. Dr. Wulff’s passion to provide an exceptional education and experiences in an all-girls environment makes her a perfect fit for RPCS. What drew you to a career in education? As the daughter of educators, I learned first-hand how the educational journey impacts a student’s sense of self and ability
to thrive in a complex and changing world. Having served as a teacher and administrator in girls’ schools for more than two decades, I have been privileged to guide young women as they discover who they are and who they might become. An excellent education is the foundation for gaining perspective, discovering purpose, and building a life of meaning. What qualities set your school apart? The outstanding academic programs at RPCS are rooted in best practices that enhance our girls’ confidence. As a “school under one roof,” girls experiment, learn resilience, and find their own unique path as artists and athletes, scholars and volunteers, leaders and active participants. Our
motto, “We are many, we are one,” articulates our attention to both the individual and the importance of our community. It’s a great time to be a RED! Learn more about Lara and her vision for RPCS at rpcs.org.
REBECCA BRENNAN, M.S., LOWER SCHOOL DIVISION HEAD The St. Paul’s Schools
Rebecca Brennan, M.S., joins The St. Paul’s Schools as lower school division head with more than a decade of experience in elementary education. Most recently, she served as principal of Solley Elementary School in Anne Arundel County, where she fostered a culture of instructional excellence through collaborative leadership, innovative coaching, and a shared vision centered on student success. Previously, she served as assistant principal at Monarch Global Academy and Windy Hill Elementary School, leading literacy initiatives and strengthening student support systems. Becca is passionate about creating joyful, student-centered learning environments where every child feels known, challenged, and inspired to thrive. What drew you to a career in education? I believe schools shape far more than academic outcomes—they shape
confidence, character, curiosity, and a child’s sense of possibility. Becoming a mother deepened that conviction, giving me an even greater appreciation for the trust families place in schools and the profound impact educators have on a child’s full journey. Throughout my career as a teacher, principal, and now division head, I’ve been most energized by creating environments where children feel known, challenged, and inspired to discover their unique gifts. What qualities set your school apart? At St. Paul’s, learning is an adventure, and every child is encouraged to explore with confidence because they are surrounded by a community of trust and authentic belonging. We combine academic excellence with transformational experiences that nurture curiosity, creativity, character, and well-being. Our
exceptional faculty know each student deeply and create opportunities for children to discover their talents while challenging them to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. We prepare students not only for future success, but to lead with love, act with courage, and use their education to make the world better. To learn more, visit stpaulsmd.org.
Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 23
KIM RICHARDSON, HEAD oF SCHOOL The Waldorf School Of Baltimore After more than two decades leading and teaching in Waldorf schools, Kim Richardson has joined the Waldorf School of Baltimore as its new Head of School. She previously served as Head of School at Linden Waldorf School and currently sits on the board of AWSNA, the national accrediting body for Waldorf education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Memphis and an MBA from Trevecca Nazarene University, pairing a lifelong commitment to children with real organizational know-how. What drew you to a career in education? I’m the granddaughter of two teachers in Memphis, a kindergarten teacher and a PE teacher, so the importance of education was passed down to me before I ever had words for it. I was taught that education helps you understand the world around you, but also that it’s a pathway to liberation. Through education, I could free myself: develop my own values,
work in a field that inspires me, follow what I’m actually passionate about. But I could also help liberate entire communities and generations. That’s what still gets me excited: watching what becomes possible for children who learn to think, unlearn what doesn’t serve them, work together, and take real responsibility for reaching their potential. What are the expectations of students in your school? More than any list of skills, I expect our students to leave this campus as whole people, ones who understand how everything and everyone around them is connected. Of course, I expect them to be high-achieving and skilled across every subject we teach. It’s a given they’ll have real options and pathways in front of them. But that’s the floor, not the ceiling. What I actually expect is that they go on to lead worthwhile lives where the well-being of the earth and of other people sits at the center. We mean it when we say Waldorf School of
24 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
Baltimore is a social education: ethics in relationship with every living thing isn’t a unit we teach, it’s something we practice. That’s the seed we’re planting here, and I believe it’s what moves the collective forward. I expect our students to help lead that charge. To learn more, visit waldorfschoolof baltimore.org.
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AI
Independent Schools are learning to make the most of
With the quality and reach of artificial intelligence tools gaining ground almost daily, independent schools in the Baltimore region are learning how to navigate technology that has the potential to disrupt just about every aspect of learning. In the four years since ChatGPT burst into the scene, schools have been studying what rules to apply regarding AI use, as students and teachers grow increasingly comfortable with the technology. “The conversation has evolved significantly,” says Emily Ziegler, director of Innovation and Special Projects and Curriculum Committee Chair at The St. Paul’s Schools. “Schools are now having broader conversations about AI literacy, workforce readiness, ethics, and the future of learning,” she said. Today, in independent school administrative offices and classrooms throughout the Baltimore region, discussions are taking place about how to maximize the use of AI without letting it become a crutch or replacement. The dangers are real. Studies show that children’s ability to learn is shaped by the interconnected growth of their cognitive, social and emotional capacities. AI has the potential to disrupt all of that, and its effect on developmental growth both in and out of school is not yet fully known. With their thoughtful approaches, Baltimore area independent schools are well positioned to steer their communities to what they hope will be the best outcome: One where AI enriches learning by expanding and growing the capabilities of students and teachers to interact and learn. There is also growing appreciation for uniquely human skills such as leadership, creativity, judgment and empathy, which become even more important in the AI epoch. 26 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
by David Nitkin
Overall, schools are moving deliberately because they want to get it right, even as storm clouds gather. A recent study by the Brookings Institution’s Center for Universal Education found the potential risks to students from AI overshadow the benefits. Observers say it’s not too late to bend the arc of AI use to enrich, rather than diminish, student learning and development. Opting In and Opting Out at Beth Tfiloh At Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School, which serves kindergarten through grade 12, Mark Kaiser is at work on an institution-wide protocol for AI. But there are challenges. “We’ve got a subcommittee formed, and we’re really trying to get that cranked out and put into acceptance in the building,” said Kaiser, the director of operations who also runs the technology office. “But we’re finding, even as we’re going through writing our protocol, that some of the platforms that we were looking at very carefully have inconsistencies and ambiguities.” The working group aims to create a living document that will provide guidance for both staff and students. Currently at Beth Tfiloh, AI use varies by division: Lower school students are not exposed to AI in the classroom, middle school students have limited exposure, and high school students and staff are encouraged to use AI more actively. The school emphasizes using AI to foster critical thinking, encouraging students and staff to engage with AI outputs thoughtfully rather than accepting them at face value. But notably, some students have opted out of AI-based assignments, citing concerns about maintaining their authentic voice or the ownership of their intellectual property.
Incorporating AI Into the Mission at The St. Paul’s Schools At The St. Paul’s Schools, staff is using a wide range of approaches to AI, “which I think is appropriate at this stage,” Ziegler said. “Some assignments may prohibit AI because the goal is for students to develop and demonstrate a specific skill independently. In other cases, teachers may allow students to use AI for brainstorming, research support, revision, studying aid, or creative exploration when it enhances the learning experience.” Teachers, she said, are using AI for tasks like creative lesson-planning and providing interactive experiences that once were unimaginable. “We recognize that these tools are already part of the reality our students and teachers are navigating,” Ziegler said. “As a result, our work has shifted toward building understanding, developing skills, providing guidance, and creating opportunities for thoughtful exploration so that our community can use AI in ways that align with our mission to ‘discover and pursue our unique gifts’ and our vision to ‘create transformational experiences through innovative and responsive teaching.’” Educators at The St. Paul’s Schools and elsewhere have always adapted to technological innovation, Ziegler said. “What matters is developing a culture of continuous learning and adaptability,” she said. AI is being incorporated into St. Paul’s research skills curriculum, technology skill-building curriculums and trainings, and other specific courses. The school’s Tech Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Business class, for example, is examining AI’s impact on areas such as prototyping, business decision-making and developing AI-driven solutions to improve existing businesses. At Loyola Blakefield, Careful Analysis Guided by Jesuit Principles At Loyola Blakefield, leaders organized a professional development day for its 150 or so faculty and staff around AI last fall, a session that indicated a shift in its scope and usage. AI had become a “mandatory topic that we know enough about to stand in front of our faculty and say, ‘This is how we want you to think and engage about this tool,’” said Ryan Bromwell, assistant principal for academics. Following the presentation and breakout sessions, faculty and staff engaged in reflection and dialogue through Ignatian Conversations, a cornerstone of Jesuit instruction rooted in active listening and
Emily Ziegler, Director of Innovation and Special Projects and Curriculum Committee Chair at The St. Paul's Schools.
intentional speaking. “The goal was for staff to put aside preconceived ideas, or the latest article they had read, whether for or against,” said Mike Lackner, academic technology coordinator and registrar, “and to challenge themselves to continue learning.” The sessions made such an impression on school President Rev. Dennis M. Baker, S.J., that he asked the technology and academic teams to make a presentation to the Board of Trustees. In Loyola Blakefield classrooms today, teachers are beginning to integrate AI in both practical and instructional ways. Some use it to prepare or plan different versions of assessments, while also introducing students to AI as a thought partner and guiding them in its responsible use. Teachers are asking AI tools to provide an overview or explanation on a topic, and then critically evaluating that response based on their own knowledge. But the school knows it is only one part of the equation. “The data shows that they’re learning far more about AI through social media and from their friends than through formal instruction,” Lackner said. Cell Phone Policies are Changing Too AI is everywhere, including on the smart phones that students carry. Increasingly, there is overlap between AI policies and smart phone policies. Many schools are actively revisiting phone policies, and the general trend is toward limiting phone use during instructional Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 27
Mike Lackner, academic technology coordinator and registrar, and Ryan Bromwell, assistant principal for academics, have been grappling with AI usage at Loyola Blakefield.
time to reduce distractions and support engagement. At Beth Tfiloh, the school has implemented policies to manage smartphone use, particularly since the return to in-person learning after COVID-19. Middle and high school students are required to check their phones into secure
storage at the start of the day, which has led to a noticeable reduction in distractions and social pressures. The lower and middle schools at St. Paul’s Schools have long maintained an “off and away for the day” approach to personal devices. This year we extended a cell phone-free academic day to our Upper Schools. “The results have been overwhelmingly positive,” said Ziegler. “We have seen increased student engagement, more face-toface interaction, and fewer distractions throughout the school day.” At Loyola Blakefield, for a while the school had a policy that students were able to use phones outdoors, as they moved about an open campus. “And what we discovered is that when they had free time to go outdoors, they would go outside, get on their
phone and be largely isolated,” Bromwell said. So last year, the school reverted to an older policy that banned phones completely. “I can’t tell you how delightful it is to watch the kids playing hacky sack and Frisbee and having wonderful conversations and eating lunch together,” Bromwell said. Last year, The Boys’ Latin of Maryland was among the first schools in the area to adopt a school-day no-phone policy, said headmaster Christopher Post. The results have been positive, he said, with noticeably increased student engagement throughout the day, both in the classroom and in interactions with one another outside of class. Removing phones from the school environment has helped foster more present, focused and socially connected students, Post said.
THE REGION’S #1 SCHOOL FOR BOYS Our Catholic, Jesuit formation inspires young men to learn with purpose, lead with courage, and serve with grace. DISCOVER MORE AT LOYOLABLAKEFIELD.ORG 28 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
program spotlight Independent schools are constantly evolving to offer new and innovative programs that challenge, support and inspire.
Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 29
Baltimore Lab School When School Fits, Everything Changes For more than 25 years, Baltimore Lab School has helped bright students with ADHD, dyslexia, and language-based learning differences do more than keep up—they thrive, growing in confidence, curiosity, and joy. Here, a learning difference is not a problem to fix; it is simply part of who a student is. What makes the difference is a school built around how these students actually learn. Classes are small, averaging just six students, so every child is known and challenged. Instruction is innovative and arts-integrated, grounded in research and designed to make learning stick. Speech and occupational therapy, counseling, and executive function coaching are built right into the day, not tacked on. And intensive, structured reading instruction gives students the literacy foundation that unlocks everything else. Serving grades 1 through 12, Baltimore Lab School meets each child where they are and points them toward what’s next. The results speak for themselves: 85% of graduates go on to enroll in college, carrying with them not just academic skills but a genuine sense of what they are capable of. When a school finally fits, a student stops struggling to belong and starts to flourish. Schedule a visit and discover what’s possible for your child at Baltimore Lab School. 2220 Saint Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21218 | 410.261.5500 | baltimorelabschool.org
The Boys’ Latin School of Maryland Where Boys Become Their Best At The Boys’ Latin School of Maryland, a Pre-K through grade 12 day and boarding school, education begins with a simple belief: boys learn best when they are known, challenged and understood. That is why every part of the Boys’ Latin experience is intentionally designed around how boys grow academically, socially and emotionally. In the Lower School, boys learn through movement, exploration and hands-on experiences. With daily physical education, outdoor learning and opportunities for purposeful play, students stay engaged while building strong academic foundations. Small class sizes ensure every boy receives the individual attention he needs, while programs like Laker Buddies connect younger students with older mentors, fostering confidence and a sense of belonging from their first years of school. As boys enter Middle School, they begin developing greater independence and responsibility. Every student participates in various athletics each season, which helps them to discover new interests while learning resilience, teamwork and leadership in the classroom, on the field, and throughout campus life. By Upper School, students are prepared to pursue their passions through challenging academics, competitive athletics, meaningful arts experiences, and a wide range of clubs and leadership opportunities. With the support of dedicated teachers who know them well, each student is encouraged to think critically, lead confidently, and prepare for success in college and beyond. Rather than embracing a one-size-fits-all approach, Boys’ Latin believes every boy deserves an education designed specifically for him. To learn more, visit boyslatinmd.com.
Calvert School Student Leadership Throughout their time at Calvert School, students of all ages are encouraged to be strong communicators and caring members of the community. As they get older, the school provides greater opportunities for student leadership. As the oldest students on campus, seventh and eighth graders are encouraged to lead student initiatives, serve as role models, and build partnerships that foster camaraderie and connection between Lower and Middle School students. During the 2025-2026 school year, Calvert eighth graders drew inspiration from recent leadership journeys – group travel programs focused on real-world issues like sustainability and environmental stewardship – through Calvert’s Institute for Leadership & Purpose (ILP). Motivated by experiences in Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas, the students launched the Eco Buddies partnership to introduce concepts of sustainability and outdoor education to Calvert’s youngest students. Throughout the year, the eighth graders met with students in Fifth Age (kindergarten) to read seasonal books, make sustainable crafts, explore Calvert’s outdoor learning spaces, and plan a winter bird-watching expedition. For the eighth graders, this program provides the opportunity to mentor younger students while fostering care for the environment. For the Fifth Agers, Eco Buddies provides trusted role models who display curiosity, a deep appreciation for the outdoors, and what it means to be responsible members of a community. These leadership opportunities empower students to apply their learning beyond the classroom, strengthen connection across grade levels, and make a meaningful impact within the Calvert community. Visit calvertschoolmd.org for more information. 30 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
Friends school of baltimore University Partnership Program At Friends School, students don’t have to wait until college to engage in collegiate-level work. Through the University Partnership Program (UPP), they collaborate with professors, researchers, physicians, and other experts from leading colleges and universities, applying classroom learning to authentic research and real-world challenges. Launched in 2011 as the first program of its kind in the Baltimore metro area, UPP has connected hundreds of Friends students with thought leaders in fields ranging from neuroscience and engineering to political science, history, medicine, and the arts. Friends believes that collaboration of this kind—applying classroom skills and knowledge to real-world problem-solving— inspires students to think deeply and prepares them for success. It also fosters an enduring passion for learning, which is critically important to their development as students and as people. Building on Friends School’s exceptional college-preparatory program, UPP now includes direct admission partnerships with The Catholic University of America, Earlham College, Goucher College, Guilford College, Loyola University Maryland, McDaniel College, Stevenson University, and Washington College. Students in good academic standing are eligible for direct admission and, at all partner institutions except Guilford College, guaranteed merit scholarships. At Friends, education fulfills its promise when preparation meets opportunity, and these partnerships are one way the school helps students move confidently toward what comes next. Visit friendsbalt.org for more information.
Garrison forest school The Boyce Center for Learning and Thriving The Boyce Center for Learning and Thriving is an innovative approach to student support at Garrison Forest School. Its three pillars—academic success, growth and enrichment, and wellness and well-being—impact every student’s academic and socialemotional journey during their time at Garrison Forest School. At the core of the Boyce Center are dedicated educators with nearly 100 years of experience between them: Academic Success Specialist Emma Parsons, Reading Specialist Julia Holt, Math Specialist Margaret Bitz, and Boyce Center Director Shannon Schmidt. “The Boyce Center recognizes and enhances the brilliance in each student,” said Center Director Schmidt. “I always tell parents and students that the path from ‘point a’ to ‘point b’ isn’t a straight line; it’s a journey that looks different for everyone. Our focus is on making sure students have the right tools for their individual journey—here at Garrison Forest and beyond.” A vital piece of the Boyce Center’s success is leveraging cross-campus connections that include the divisional Counselors and Academic Resource Coordinators, the Health Center team, Athletics, teachers and parents. Working together, they’ve positioned the Boyce Center as a space where students can connect with the resources they need to truly thrive. For more information, visit gfs.org.
Glenelg COUNTRY school Expeditions At Glenelg Country School, learning is not limited to the classroom. Through the Expeditions program, students take part in thoughtfully designed experiences that connect academic study with the wider world. Each Expedition is tailored to a student’s age and stage of development, creating opportunities to explore new places, encounter different perspectives, and strengthen relationships with classmates and teachers. Younger students may begin with local adventures that build curiosity and confidence, while older students take on increasingly complex experiences involving outdoor education, cultural discovery, service, and overnight travel. Along the way, students learn to navigate unfamiliar settings, work collaboratively, solve problems, and take greater responsibility for themselves and their communities. Expeditions are more than trips. They are an extension of the school’s educational program and a meaningful part of the GCS experience. By stepping outside familiar routines, students are encouraged to become more independent, adaptable, and reflective. They return with new knowledge, stronger connections, and stories that often remain among their most memorable school experiences. Through learning in motion, the Expeditions program helps students discover more about the world, one another, and themselves while putting GCS’s mission into action. These journeys invite students to contribute thoughtfully, thrive amid challenges, and excel. Visit glenelg.org for more information. Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 31
Johns Hopkins Engineering Pre-College Programs Johns Hopkins Engineering Innovation Pre-College Programs give high school students interested in engineering and technology the opportunity to build foundational skills for the technological future—all while earning college credit from their top-tier research university. The school believes it’s never too early for students to build the engineering skills professional engineers use every day. Designed to introduce curious students to real-world engineering projects and prepare them for college-level work, Engineering Innovation’s pre-college programs build confidence, creative problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and more. In this program, students will: • Calculate, categorize, and assess real-world data for validity • Define technical problems and refine solutions • Tackle college-level engineering projects • Explore engineering fields ranging from civil and mechanical to electrical and biomedical • Choose from hybrid, in-person, or online courses With the pre-college programs offered at Johns Hopkins Engineering, students can deepen their interest in engineering and take the first step to becoming a future leader in innovation. Visit ei.jhu.edu for more information.
Maryvale preparatory school Experiential Learning at Maryvale The Patricia J. Mitchell ’65 Leadership Institute at Maryvale Preparatory School is a nationally recognized, best-in-class signature leadership program that touches every student on campus. Maryvale expanded its curriculum to include Experiential Learning. This dynamic initiative engages young women through early career exposure and hands-on learning, ensuring that every graduate gains real-world experience both in and out of the classroom. Through this program, leadership scholars attended the State of the Woman Conference in Washington, D.C., in the fall of 2025 and the 70th Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations in the spring of 2026. Over the summer, students had the opportunity to participate in 45 different career exploration opportunities. This endeavor pairs students with professionals in fields of interest to them, allowing them to actively learn, develop networks, and deepen their understanding of diverse career opportunities. Experiential Learning goes beyond traditional academics by addressing students’ identities, passions, and holistic development, fostering growth and confidence. Visit maryvale.com for more information.
mercy high school International Baccalaureate Widely considered the world’s premier academic curriculum, the International Baccalaureate (IB) furthers Mercy High School’s mission, enabling students to form habits of lifelong inquiry, critical thinking, and courageous action in society. The IB’s rigorous academic approach delivers impressive results: studies show that acceptance rates for IB students at prestigious colleges and universities across the globe outpace other applicants. In 2019, Mercy became the only all-girls’ Catholic school in Baltimore authorized to offer the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), which aims to develop inquiring, knowledgeable, caring young people through engaging coursework and a culminating sophomore research project. The MYP is the academic program undertaken by every ninth and 10th grade Mercy student. In 2024, Mercy received authorization to offer the Diploma Programme (DP), extending its IB commitment to providing a high quality, challenging, international education to 11th and 12th graders. The DP features coursework across six subject groups, a high-level seminar on the nature of knowledge, a special project involving creativity, activity, and/or service, and a culminating essay. Members of the Class of 2027 will be the first graduating class to complete the full Diploma Programme. For more information, visit mercyhighschool.com. 32 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
Notre Dame Preparatory School Leadership at NDP: Every Day, Every Way At Notre Dame Preparatory School, leadership is not confined to a specific title, a specialized track, or a formal program. Instead, it is an intuitive, everyday practice woven seamlessly into the fabric of the community. Whether steering a challenging classroom discussion, organizing a local service project, or guiding teammates on the athletic field, NDP students are introduced to leadership opportunities on a daily basis. Leadership at NDP is accessible to all, not limited to a select group. This organic approach to cultivating leaders is deeply rooted in the school’s core values. NDP believes that single-gender education develops confident women who are independent thinkers. Students do not learn about leadership just from a textbook; they are empowered to live it, because the school believes that direct experience of leadership develops courage and fortitude. Experiences beyond the classroom are a critical part of a student’s self-discovery. By encouraging students to take charge of their own unique journeys, they naturally develop the skills and empathy needed to transform the world. Among the leadership opportunities at NDP: 70+ student-led clubs plus four leadership organizations in the high school; two dozen clubs and interest groups in the Middle Level; Campus Ministry; dozens of service activities; theatre, dance, and music performances; 14 Upper Level sports and eight Middle Level sports; Women In…(WIN) Experiential Learning Internship Program; and 14 academic honor societies. To learn more, visit notredameprep.com.
THE odyssey school Early Learning The Odyssey School’s Early Learning program provides a warm, highly structured environment for students in kindergarten through third grade with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. With small classes of about 4–9 students, teachers offer individualized instruction that meets each child where they are while building the foundational language and literacy skills essential for success at Odyssey and beyond. Grounded in research, the program provides: • Specialized, direct, and explicit instruction throughout the day with an emphasis on oral expression • Multimodal, hands-on learning across all subjects • Language-rich experiences woven into every class, including specials • Access to a team of speech-language pathologists • Creative and spirited traditions throughout the school year to encourage a love of reading Early Learning teachers cultivate students’ natural curiosity and sense of wonder while creating joyful, engaging experiences where children can tackle their challenges and discover their strengths. Research consistently shows that children with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences make the greatest gains when they receive explicit instruction in phonological awareness and oral language in their early elementary years. By identifying and addressing learning differences early, students can develop the skills and confidence needed to become fluent readers and lifelong learners. Visit theodysseyschool.org.
roland parK COUNTRY SCHOOL The Holliday Heine STEM Institute The Holliday Heine STEM Institute at RPCS, established through the generosity of Holliday Heine, an RPCS graduate from 1962, and her family, offers a comprehensive K-12 STEM program anchored by the engineering design process. Students solve real-world problems by asking questions, developing solutions, and iteratively testing their designs. In lower school, this is highlighted by the fourth-grade capstone project, where this year, students designed a friendship bench for the playground. Teams evaluated potential sites, interviewed peers to incorporate their needs, and created prototypes from their findings. These skills are directly reflected in the upper school’s award-winning ACE (Architecture, Construction, Engineering) program. This past year, students collaborated with industry mentors to design a comprehensive nature center for the ACE Mentor of Baltimore challenge. They applied the iterative design process to professional-level tasks, including brainstorming through bubble diagrams, evaluating sustainable design materials, and creating 3D models. At RPCS, students develop and enhance their STEM skills each year, whether through designing tiny houses in middle school or taking the Biomedical Engineering Innovation class through their collaboration with Johns Hopkins University. The K-12 programming ensures that the curiosity sparked in early childhood evolves into the professional persistence required for high-impact STEM careers. Learn more at rpcs.org/STEM. Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 33
St. John’s Parish Day School STEM
St. John’s Parish Day School, a co-ed Episcopal School in Ellicott City, Maryland, has enhanced its already robust STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program to complement an academically diverse and rigorous curriculum. By implementing the STEM program into the curriculum at age 3 and continuing through 5th grade, St. John’s students learn to understand the world around them through interdisciplinary, project-based learning, and student-led discovery. Rather than focusing on technology as the centerpiece of the curriculum, the program uses all aspects of STEM to help students develop creativity, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving techniques. Students engage in hands-on projects, scientific inquiry, engineering challenges, and mathematical exploration that encourage curiosity and perseverance. Learning extends beyond the classroom into multiple outdoor learning spaces, where students investigate the natural world, make observations, and apply scientific concepts through direct experience. Technology is thoughtfully integrated and studied when it enhances learning, but it never replaces foundational skills, meaningful discussion, or the value of discovery through exploration. By combining innovation with a more traditional educational approach, the STEM program at St. John’s Parish Day School helps students build a deep understanding of concepts, develop confidence in their abilities, and cultivate a lifelong love of learning. For more information, visit stjohnspds.org.
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34 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
A Small, Co-Ed K-8 Independent School
A lifetime of learning starts here.
Progressive
Engaging Curricula Inspired Teachers
Confident Students Strong Community
Preschool– 8th Grade
Monkton, MD
S A I N T J A M E S A C A D E M Y. O R G
EXPERIENCE GREENMOUNT October 18 | 12-3 p.m.
The Ben Brandenburg Middle School Wing— a newly re-imagined space for students to learn and lead.
www.greenmountschool.org admissions@greenmountschool.org 410-235-6295 501 West 30th St., Baltimore, MD 21211
THE REGION’S PREMIERE PRE-K THROUGH 12TH GRADE LEADERSHIP SCHOOL
Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 35
THE PARK SCHOOL of BALTIMORE
P R E - K – G R A D E 1 2 P R O G R E S S I V E E D U C AT I O N
Positive Expectations | Respect for Individual Differences | Excellence in Teaching & Learning
PLAN A VISIT! The Park School 100-acre campus – located just 18 minutes from the Inner Harbor – is a dynamic setting for living and learning that includes state-of-the-art facilities, playing fields, woodlands, a tributary, pond, newly reimagined Challenge outdoor education course, trails, gardens, and more. www.parkschool.net 36 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
I’m a reader and a writer. I’m an athlete, a lawyer for the Mock Trial team, and a photographer. I’m a leader. I love being all of these things. At Park, we cultivate our students’ innate curiosity by nurturing their interests and engaging them as active participants in their own education — including the opportunity to pursue a wide range of co-curricular activities. Learning about psychology through my literature class was an amazing experience. I love exploring subjects I never thought I’d get so deep into. Each year, our Upper School faculty offers more than 145 unique and challenging electives including courses such as Psychology & Literature, Electrical Engineering, Civil Rights Movements and The U.S. Supreme Court, Surface Design, and Discrete Mathematics.
None of us really sees the world in the same way — and that’s just such an exciting idea to me. At Park, we know that teaching and learning is most effective in a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment — one where each community member experiences genuine belonging and, therefore, can be their best, authentic self. I want to dedicate my life to something that’s bigger than myself — something that helps other people. The Park School prepares students to pursue further academic achievement, develop range of possibilities life offers.
The Park School of Baltimore is a Pre-K through Grade 12 school with the mission of supporting young people in becoming confident questioners and responsible citizens of the world. www.parkschool.net
— Aria, Grade 11
Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 37
Have an
Join the Club! By David Nitkin
On campuses across the Baltimore region, students do far more than study for exams or compete on athletic fields. At one school, a student-led tea club gathers to explore brewing traditions from around the world. At another, students practice juggling, acrobatics and aerial arts as part of a circus program woven into the curriculum. These unusual pursuits may seem far removed from traditional academics, but educators say they reflect an important strength of independent schools: the freedom to cultivate curiosity and holistic development wherever it leads. Whether it's a niche club launched by a student or a decades-old program that has become part of a school's identity, these activities offer opportunities to develop leadership, confidence, creativity and a sense of belonging. In an educational landscape increasingly focused on measurable outcomes, Baltimore's independent schools continue to make room for passions that are harder to quantify but that leave lasting impressions.
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Unusual Hobby? For generations, independent schools have promoted academic excellence as their defining mission. But educators also agree that some of the most important lessons students learn happen outside the classroom. Across Baltimore's independent schools, participation in extracurricular activities, from clubs that prepare for professional careers to immersions into languages, has become a critical component of student development. These programs offer opportunities to strengthen confidence and explore interests that may ultimately shape college and career choices. Educational researchers have repeatedly found that students who participate in extracurricular activities are more likely to be engaged in school, develop stronger social and leadership skills and achieve positive academic outcomes. While athletics often receive the most attention, studies suggest that arts, academic clubs, student leadership organizations and service activities can provide many of the same developmental benefits — and in some cases may be even more closely linked to academic achievement. Here’s a look at some of the specialized nonacademic and non-athletic activities available at the region’s independent schools. Circus Arts at The Waldorf School: Becoming the Most Interesting Person in the Room At The Waldorf School of Baltimore, educational philosophy focuses on the whole child, including physical well-being. Physical movement, artistic expression and practical skill development are viewed as essential companions to academic learning. Growing and nurturing the body means learning how it works and what it is capable of doing. The Waldorf School strengthens that concept through movement education, including juggling, balancing and other skill-based activities that challenge students to develop coordination, focus, perseverance and confidence. “One of the things that Waldorf prides itself on is that by the time a kid graduates from eighth grade,
they should have some skill in something that is an uncommon skill. They should be able to walk into a room full of adults and know that they have one skill or one thing about them that makes them unique within that room,” says Mikko Goodhill, a physical education instructor at The Waldorf School of Baltimore. At Waldorf, movement is viewed as an essential part of education, helping students develop the focus, perseverance, confidence and self-awareness that support learning in every subject. Circus arts, the school believes, do just that. Those arts are integrated into movement education, focusing on balance, hand-eye coordination and perseverance. The philosophy emphasizes mastering uncommon skills like juggling to foster self-assurance and resilience in students. While circus arts are part of the regular curriculum at The Waldorf School, Goodhill also offers more in-depth after-school activities for deeper skill development in student-selected focus areas. The program draws on the "spatial dynamics" approach, pioneered by Jaimen McMillan, which views movement as foundational to education. In spatial dynamics, body awareness, movement and spatial relationships help students develop coordination and focus. Skills taught in the circus arts training program include juggling, plate spinning, poi (a New Zealand performance art), devil sticks, Chinese yo-yos (diabolos), balance boards/beams, unicycling and gymnastic pyramids. The confidence it instills can be transformational, Goodhill said. “Just think about something that you had to work hard towards and finally mastered,” he said. “There is this good feeling that's instilled in you when you look back at something that seemed impossible and you realize the process of learning it wasn't anything like what I thought it would be.” The process takes time. Instructions include repeating and mastering one skill before moving on to the next “At the end of the day, we love the kids here, and we want them to succeed. We want them to be confident,” Goodhill says. Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 39
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While Waldorf students can compete in sports like soccer, basketball and track, the special body training offers complementary objectives, he said, and the kids “appreciate an outlet to have fun with movement that has really nothing to do with points.” Health Occupation Students of America — Largest Club at Glenelg Country School Glenelg Country School's Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) club is the school's largest, with 31 members out of 320 upper school students. Started by a student who was an emergency medical technician, it has benefited from the guidance of Jane Shovlin, HOSA’s Maryland state coordinator and the mother of faculty member and STEM educator Ben Shovlin.
The club is so large in part because Glenelg Country School (GCS) “attracts people that want to be doctors,” said Cory Wees, a chemistry teacher who is the club’s advisor, adding that students with an intense load of Advanced Placement chemistry and biology classes seem to benefit from seeing the application of what they are studying. The club is student-run, with Wees providing logistical support and current president Danielle Choi highly involved and instrumental in the club's success. HOSA is a national (now international) organization that provides students with opportunities in health professions, including competitions, internships and networking. GCS HOSA members participate
interests
in state and international leadership competitions, with students qualifying for and attending national/international events. The father of one club member is involved with management of the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore. The club made a field trip there, as well as to the National Health Museum in Montgomery County, gaining exposure to medical professionals. HOSA helps students access internships and shadowing opportunities in medical settings. “A lot of medical offices don't bring in interns because they are worried about liability, but if you're a part of HOSA, there is an ability to get into doctor's offices and shadow doctors,” Wees said. “It's an amazing opportunity to have access to these internships.” The club partners with organizations like the Parkinson's Foundation, SAFE Project (drug overdose awareness) and the Red Cross, providing community service and volunteer opportunities. The club attracts a diverse group of students interested in various health fields (doctors, nurses, vets, physical therapists, etc.), with a slight majority aiming for medical professions. President Danielle Choi wants to be a neurosurgeon. “I’m telling you, she is going to do it,” Wees said. Other current club members are interested in physical therapy and sports-injury related work. Leadership and continuity are strong, with underclassmen seeking leadership roles and the club's reputation enhancing college applications.
Future Health Professionals students from Glenelg Country School learn skills at the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center in Baltimore. Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 41
extracurricular Jemicy School Tea Club Waverly Negin, a 10th grader at the Jemicy School, remembers being overwhelmed with math assignments and needing a coping mechanism. “It kind of all started when I was really stressed about math, and I had just a cup of water, hot water,” she said. “It calmed me down so fast and effectively that I was kind of amazed. That kind of sparked the tea journey.”
Waverly Negin started a tea club at Jemicy School to share its benefits.
A caring staff member at Jemicy began exchanging different kinds of teas with Waverly, and then a friend brought some from her travels. “This started a long discussion about how tea can connect people,” she said. Jemicy School educates talented students with dyslexia and other related language-based learning differences in grades 1-12. Known for its expert teachers, multi-sensory and experiential programs, and creative curriculum, Jemicy has been educating students for more than 50 years. One day, it dawned on Waverly that she wanted to share and build on the experience of something that made her feel emotionally grounded and use it to build a sense of community awareness and respect for other cultures.
The idea for the Jemicy Tea Club was born. After receiving approval from a sponsor who agreed to provide a room, the club began meeting weekly during lunch, with members preparing and discussing different types of tea, including matcha, and learning about their cultural significance. Their routine is simple: Club members pick a packet of tea from a large selection, “and I'll try and explain where it's from, potentially the benefit, potentially the culture surrounding it,” she said. “So if we had English breakfast, I'll do some research and talk about the black tea variety, how it can be bitter. “It's become a time of discussion and being present for each other,” Waverly said. “A lot of the time you do not have time to enjoy each other's presence and just enjoy a nice drink.” In truth, the club is not large, and Waverly said she is considering combining it with an existing cooking club, since there may be some natural overlap. And in case you are interested, her favorite tea is oolong.
At TNCS, a Capstone Experience Combining Service, Language Skills and Travel The New Century School's middle school Capstone trip is a signature experience that marks the culmination of students' time at the school, which serves children from preschool through eighth grade. The Capstone trip is designed for seventh and eighth graders and takes place every other year, with both grades participating together. This experience is deeply rooted in two
main priorities: service learning and language immersion. The school provides a structured service program where students in grades 3 through 8 are recommended to complete 50 hours of service. Depending on the total hours accumulated, students can graduate with honors such as cum servitium fidelis (50 hours), cum servitium dedicatum (75 hours), or cum servitium eximium (100 hours). Students engage in meaningful service projects with local communities, for example working with children, supporting housing or environmental initiatives, and, most recently, leading music workshops with the Boys and Girls Club in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The service component is closely tied to the school's core value of service, which is emphasized throughout the curriculum and extracurricular activities. “The service aspect is a core value of ours,” said Karin Cintron, who oversees the program. Language immersion is another cornerstone of the Capstone trip. All students receive daily instruction in both Mandarin Chinese and Spanish, with language learning embedded into the school's mission and daily life. The Capstone trip is intentionally planned in locations where students can use their language skills in real-world contexts. While trips have typically been to Spanish-speaking locales such as Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, and Mexico, the school has considered more ambitious destinations like China, though logistical and global factors have so far kept trips closer to home. Students who have been
activities
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Students from The New Century School participate in a Capstone trip to Puerto Rico.
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at the school for several years achieve high levels of conversational fluency, as evidenced by strong performance on international language exams and their ability to communicate effectively during the trip. The total cost of the trip is about $1,200 per student for a six-day experience, which includes flights, lodging and most meals. Students are responsible for organizing and executing fundraising activities, such as running a school store, hosting coffee stands during parent-teacher conferences and setting up pop-up merchandise shops at school events. These efforts typically cover about 60% of the trip's cost, with the remainder paid by families. The fundraising process gives students hands-on business experience, from marketing and inventory management to customer engagement and financial planning. TNCS Head of School Anne Marie Simonetti said the fundraising component leads to “long-term student engagement” and sophisticated decision making, as students decide how to stock pop-up stores and market themselves. “The efforts are student-led,” Simonetti said. “Whether that means selecting the different materials for a school store and pricing them and keeping inventory, or the coffee stand during our parent teacher conferences this year, which was wildly successful.” Participation in the Capstone trip varies by year, but the middle school is small, with about 20 students in total and roughly half participating in the trip in a given year. The trip is chaperoned by teachers, not parents, and is seen as a highlight by both students and families. The anticipation of the Capstone trip motivates younger students, and alumni have been invited to return and share their experiences. While the Capstone may not be a primary recruitment point for the school, “it’s very, very unique, and it's something that our students are quick to mention. It’s definitely an area that our students are always highly excited about,” said Simonetti. Beyond the Capstone, TNCS offers a range of extracurricular activities that reflect student interests and take advantage of the school's urban location in Fells Point. Activities are offered after school in quarterly blocks and include both on-site and off-site activities, such as flag football, ballet, kayaking, bowling and walking tours of the city. The school solicits feedback from students and families to shape offerings and adapts the schedule as interests evolve. Overall, the Capstone trip and the broader extracurricular program are integral to TNCS's mission of developing globally minded, service-oriented and linguistically proficient students.
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campus views Explore the captivating campuses of some of our area’s most beautiful independent schools.
Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 47
The Boys’ Latin School of Maryland
Set on 72 scenic acres in Baltimore, The Boys’ Latin School of Maryland is home to more than 630 boys, from Pre-K through grade 12. The school offers the Baltimore area’s only seven-day boarding program for boys, welcoming students from across the country and around the world. The idyllic campus stretches across both the north and south sides of Lake Avenue, giving students room to learn, play and explore. Every division has its own academic building and library, creating ageappropriate spaces designed specifically for boys. The school’s newest program, Little Lakers Pre-K, provides 4-year-old boys an engaging, play-based environment where curiosity, confidence and a love of learning take root from day one. Lower School students also enjoy ample outdoor playground space that includes a Creativity Corner, a hands-on makerspace encouraging imagination, problem-solving and discovery.
Outdoor spaces are just as important as classrooms. Boys’ Latin features two turf athletic fields for year-round play, tennis courts, a baseball field and additional practice fields that support students of all ages and athletic interests. Innovation is woven throughout campus. The school’s state-ofthe-art robotics lab serves as the home of the Lumberjack Robotics team, while the flexible black box theater provides an inspiring venue for performances, rehearsals and creative expression. In 2020, Boys’ Latin expanded its campus with the purchase of 28 neighboring acres. The property is now home to a modern residential life community for boarding students and provides additional space for outdoor education, environmental science, leadership development and recreation. In 2024, the Upper School campus underwent extensive renovations made possible by
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the largest fundraising campaign in the school’s history. Highlights include Gore Hall, a three-story academic building featuring state-of-the-art science labs, collaborative learning spaces and a vibrant art studio. The former library was reimagined as a dynamic learning commons, while the Gelston Athletic Center was renovated with an expanded fitness center, redesigned locker rooms and athletic training facilities, updated meeting spaces and refreshed gathering areas for students, families and alumni. At Boys’ Latin, every classroom, field, studio and gathering space is intentionally designed to help boys discover their passions and interests, challenge themselves academically, and ultimately become their best selves. Learn more or schedule a visit at boyslatinmd.com. For a virtual tour, visit boyslatin md.com/uploaded/tour/index. html.
Cambridge School
Imagine a place where K-8 learning is not confined to four walls, but unfolds across open fields, wooded trails, and quiet corners of campus that invite students to wonder, explore, and discover. Located on Charles Street in Towson, Cambridge School’s campus plays an important role in this co-ed, Christ-centered community of learners. “From kindergarten to eighth grade, students are invited to a rich feast of learning that is infused with inquiry and imagination, drawing them deeper into the habit of learning that will shape the rhythm of their lives,” says Outdoor Education Teacher Ann Kumpf. At Cambridge, children bring their full selves to the learning
experience: their questions, interests, gifts, struggles, friendships, faith, and growing sense of identity. They are known as whole persons, made in the image of God and full of curiosity, dignity, and capacity. They are hungry to encounter new ideas, master new skills, and enter into the joy of discovery. Through thoughtful instruction, rich conversation, hands-on experiences, and meaningful exploration, students engage with ideas not only by reading or listening, but by observing, asking questions, experimenting, creating, and making connections. Inside the classroom, they enter into stories, history, science, mathematics, language, art, Scripture, and discussion in ways that help them see how knowledge is beautifully connected. Outside the classroom, those same ideas often come alive in fresh and memorable ways. A creek can become the setting for a literary journey, a patch of earth can become an archaeological
dig, and the natural world can become a living laboratory for careful observation and inquiry. The campus gives students room to think deeply, move freely, work collaboratively, and engage imaginatively. Through the school’s integral approach to education, subjects are not viewed as isolated pieces of information, but as interconnected ways of understanding God, themelves, and the world. At Cambridge, the campus itself is part of the curriculum: a place where hearts and minds are inspired, where learning moves naturally between indoors and outdoors, and where students discover that God’s world is rich with truth, beauty, and goodness. For more information, visit cambridgeschool.org.
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garrison forest school
The 110-acre, tree-lined Garrison Forest School campus gives students the space to explore, build, create, and think. There are endless learning opportunities outside of the classroom! Younger students have access to several different playgrounds, and the innovative outdoor classroom offers students space to climb and jump, to imagine and pretend. The outdoor classroom features nature-based play structures, dirt and sand to dig and create, a garden, and musical instruments. The rolling campus includes state-of-the-art athletic fields, including a lighted turf field; an impressive equestrian complex that features riding and polo arenas, an outdoor riding ring and barns to house the many campus horses; pollinator gardens; a dye garden used by art classes; a pond and pavilion space for gathering, relaxing, or conducting nature-based science lessons; and ample spaces to walk and explore. The academic buildings are designed to be modern, comfortable spaces
to learn and collaborate. Each division–Preschool, Lower School, Middle School and Upper School–has a separate, intentionally constructed learning space. The arts building encourages creative, personal expression and houses the 2D and 3D art rooms, woodworking lab, photography lab, a makerspace, performance hall, and practice rooms. The Garland Theater hosts many performances throughout the year, including divisional programs, a Middle School play, two Upper School productions, dance performances, and more, and serves as a gathering space for the GFS community. The campus center includes the Searle Athletic Center and Alumnae Hall, home to their recently renovated dining hall. Within the Searle Athletic Center, students can run the raised track or use the workout room; it is also home to the dance studio and provides space for their athletes to train and compete. Featuring natural lighting, the two-story library offers quiet meeting and study spaces and
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cozy nooks for reading. GFS’ boarding program, offered for grades 8-12, has four student dorms and 24 faculty residences, creating a homelike atmosphere for students joining the school from across the country and around the world. Whether learning and exploring outdoors or finding your academic spark within one of the buildings, the GFS campus becomes an integral part of your overall educational journey. For move info, please visit www.gfs.org. VIRTUAL TOUR
glenelg country school
Perched on Glenelg Country School’s expansive campus, the Gould Observatory offers students and community members a place to look beyond the familiar and explore the night sky. The facility reflects the school’s commitment to curiosity, discovery, and hands-on learning by giving students opportunities to engage with astronomy in a setting designed for observation and exploration. The observatory supports classroom learning while also creating experiences that extend beyond the school day. Students can connect concepts in science and mathematics to what they see overhead, transforming distant planets, stars, and constellations from textbook subjects into visible objects of study. The experience encourages questions, careful observation, and a deeper understanding of the universe and the forces that shape it. The Gould Observatory also serves as a gathering place for the broader GCS community. Star
parties and other special events invite families, students, faculty, staff, and visitors to share in the excitement of viewing the night sky. These gatherings combine learning with a sense of wonder, making astronomy accessible to participants of all ages and levels of experience. Its location on the school’s 90-acre campus provides a fitting setting for these experiences. Away from the activity of the academic day, the observatory allows visitors to pause, look upward, and consider a world far larger than the one immediately around them. More than a campus facility, the Gould Observatory represents the spirit of learning at GCS: asking questions, exploring ideas, and discovering new perspectives. It offers a reminder that education often begins with curiosity and that some of the most meaningful discoveries happen when students are given the opportunity to see something for themselves. Visit glenelg.org for more info. Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 51
notre dame preparatory school Set on 65 wooded acres in the Baltimore area, Notre Dame Preparatory School’s campus offers a captivating, inspiring, and secure environment for more than 810 middle and high school students. Founded in 1873 on Charles Street—now the site of Notre Dame of Maryland University—NDP relocated to its Hampton Lane home in Towson, Maryland, in 1960 and has grown thoughtfully ever since. From the moment visitors arrive, the campus reflects deep symbolism and tradition: the seven pillars at the entrance serve as a welcoming beacon, the fieldstone façade signifies strength and permanence, and the Gateway marks both the beginning and culmination of each student’s journey, from Orientation to Graduation. Over the decades, careful expansion and renovation have ensured that NDP’s facilities evolve alongside the needs of its students. In August 2026, the school will open Huffman Commons, a vibrant, multifunctional hub
designed to foster connection and enhance daily life. With expanded square footage, a modern kitchen and servery, a student lounge and café, and a refreshed faculty and staff lounge with an outdoor patio, the 12,300-square-foot Commons will serve as a central gathering place that reflects the energy and spirit of the NDP community. Academic innovation is anchored by the Jane Kroh Satterfield Innovation Wing, which opened in 2020. This 23,500-square-foot space supports interdisciplinary STEAM learning, featuring a two-story fabrication lab, digital studios, art classrooms, and dedicated Humanities spaces where students can collaborate, design, and explore ideas. The Knott Performing Arts Center supports NDP’s vibrant arts programs, including band, orchestra, drama, dance, and choral studies, while the Irene B. Kirby Wing houses mathematics and social studies. Middle Level students enjoy a dedicated floor with science labs, an art studio,
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an Innovation Lab, a television broadcast studio, and community gathering spaces. At the heart of campus sits the Chapel, a treasured spiritual center featuring Italian-carved statuary and a dramatic skylight, where many cherished traditions take place. Beyond the classroom, students benefit from exceptional athletic and outdoor amenities, including turf and grass fields, tennis courts, cross-country trails, an indoor pool, and multiple gyms. Outdoor classrooms, courtyards, and peaceful spaces like the Prayer Garden and Peace Path further enrich campus life. For more information, visit notredameprep.com.
the park school of baltimore The Park School of Baltimore’s 100-acre campus is a living laboratory where students from Pre-K through Grade 12 explore, create, and connect with the natural world every day. Interconnected academic buildings — with a net-zero Science & Engineering Wing and dedicated arts and athletic facilities — serve as hubs for discovery, and outdoor classroom spaces, woodlands, trails, gardens, a pond, and a stream are easily accessible and often visited. STEM: Learning by Doing Park’s campus provides endless opportunities for scientific exploration and engineering innovation. In the labs of the school’s new 12,500-square-foot Science & Engineering Wing, students build a human-powered amphibious vehicle to race through downtown Baltimore as part of the American Visionary Art Museum’s Kinetic Sculpture Race. Students of all ages conduct field studies in the stream that runs through campus, and use the pond as a site for
observation, experimentation, and environmental research, learning how to think and behave like scientists. Athletics: Space to Grow and Compete Park’s 42,000-square-foot Athletic Center anchors a competitive interscholastic athletic program that emphasizes teamwork, wellness, and personal growth. The facility includes three basketball courts, a fitness center, training room, locker rooms, and an outdoor swimming pool. Five playing fields on the main campus and additional fields at the nearby Sugar Campus provide exceptional spaces for practice and competition. An on-campus tennis complex joins the suite of facilities this fall. Beyond Park’s athletic program, students use the fields, trails, and Challenge Course to build strength, resilience, and confidence. The Arts: Creativity at Every Turn The 44,000-square-foot Wyman Arts Center is home to a vibrant
visual and performing arts program. Students learn and create in drawing and painting studios, a photography studio, digital imaging lab, recording studio, and maker spaces for wood, metal, and ceramics. Two theaters provide venues for performances, assemblies, and gatherings. The studios and stages at Park are transformative spaces, giving students opportunities to imagine, experiment, and thoughtfully and creatively engage and build community. All areas of Park’s campus, both indoors and out, provide opportunities for hands-on experiences that reward curiosity and inspire growth. For details, visit parkschool.net.
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the St. Paul's schools Ask St. Paul’s students about their favorite place on campus, and you’ll hear a common refrain: the hill. Nestled at the heart of The St. Paul’s Schools’ 130-acre campus, this iconic gathering place brings the community together. Students from St. Paul’s School for Girls and St. Paul’s School for Boys share lunch in Adirondack chairs, faculty lead outdoor classes by the Victory Bell, and the youngest learners from St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School celebrate One St. Paul’s Day with an annual dance party on the grass—all set against sweeping views of Greenspring Valley. Beyond the hill, opportunities unfold in every direction. In 2025, St. Paul’s unveiled an $18 million renovation and expansion of the girls’ school, featuring a signature Experience+ Center for career exploration and real-world learning, two makerspaces, eight science labs, a digital computing studio, and a health and wellness
suite. These innovative spaces complement the boys’ school expansion completed in 2020, reflecting the schools’ ongoing commitment to hands-on, futurefocused learning. Across campus, students are encouraged to explore new interests and discover their passions. They broadcast live on St. Paul’s Radio, build projects in the woodshop, investigate local ecosystems along the Carico Trail, and extend classroom learning through the Darrell Nature Pavilion and community garden. Creativity flourishes in the Ward Center for the Arts, home to a 283-seat theater, black box theater, dance studios, visual and digital arts classrooms, music studios, and the St. Paul’s Chapel, where performances, assemblies, and services unite the community. Athletics are equally expansive, with two turf fields, seven grass fields, 18 tennis courts, performance and practice gyms,
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golf simulators, squash courts, new batting cages, and dedicated training facilities that support student-athletes year-round. There’s never been a better time to experience St. Paul’s. To explore the campus, register for an upcoming admissions event, and discover the view for yourself, visit stpaulsmd.org/ campusviews.
The Waldorf School of Baltimore The Waldorf School of Baltimore’s campus unfolds into an urban-woodland tucked behind Cylburn Arboretum, its trails naturally terraced by boulders and fallen logs. Just past the tree line sits Baltimore City’s only Forest Kindergarten, a classroom without walls where children spend their days outside learning and growing in every season, rain or shine, sleet or snow. The main building is unique in that it was purpose-built for Waldorf education: curving lines, live-edged wood, and windows that flood every room
and hallway with natural light. Each preschool classroom has its own indoor and outdoor space, and kitchens built right into the preschool rooms let children bake bread or chop vegetables grown in the school’s own gardens for snack-time soup. Beyond the woods, the campus opens into seven organic vegetable gardens and four fruit groves, tended and harvested by students themselves. A beehive, community chickens, a pollinator garden, a dye garden and a rain garden round out a campus where learning and caring for the natural world is a natural part of
the day. Even lunchtime scraps complete the loop, composted and returned to the soil for next season’s harvest. That approach has earned recognition beyond the school gates. Waldorf School of Baltimore is a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School and a MAEOE Certified Sustainable School, honors that reflect a longstanding commitment to sustainability and hands-on learning that makes the campus, and school, so unique. To learn more, visit waldorf schoolofbaltimore.org.
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BALTIMORE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS A NATIONAL LEADER Find out why our Catholic schools rank the highest in the state and the nation according to the Nation’s Report Card.
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independent school directory Archdiocese of Baltimore Catholic Schools
ADDRESS: 320 Cathedral Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 WEBSITE: archbalt.org/schools PHONE NUMBER: 410-547-5369 TUITION & FEES: $1,730-$24,850* TOTAL ENROLLMENT: Over 24,000 students* (*2025-2026 School Year) APPLICATION DEADLINES: Application deadlines vary by school. Please contact the Catholic school(s) of your choice for application and admissions information. OPEN HOUSE DATES: Open House dates vary by school. Please contact the Catholic school(s) of your choice for open house, shadow day, tours, and other admissions event information. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed and single-sex Catholic school educational options available GRADE LEVELS: Preschool, kindergarten, elementary, middle, and high school YEAR FOUNDED: Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton laid the foundation for the Catholic school system in the United States by opening her school for girls in Baltimore in 1810. RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore provide a Christ-centered education that is academically excellent and empowers students to reach their full potential–spiritually, intellectually, physically, socially, and morally. Catholic Schools offer a balanced curriculum, integrating music and arts, world language, and Catholic faith, while challenging students in the areas of science, math, and technology. Catholic schools emphasize critical thinking and encourage collaboration, problemsolving, and communication. Over 24,000 students attend Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, which includes 43 elementary and middle schools and 17 high schools located in Baltimore City, Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Frederick, Harford, Howard, and Washington Counties.
Arts & Ideas Sudbury School
ADDRESS: 4915 Holder Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21214 WEBSITE: aisudbury.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-426-0001 TUITION & FEES: $10,650 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 70-90 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling admission OPEN HOUSE DATES: September 19 & March 6. See website for more information and Virtual Open House. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 2008 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None 58 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
OVERVIEW: All children deserve an education that is fair, empowering, and entirely their own. Arts & Ideas Sudbury School is a democratically run school for children ages 5-18, where the core principles are trust, autonomy, justice, and learning through play. At Arts & Ideas Sudbury School, freedom isn’t a perk, it’s the foundation. Modeled after Sudbury Valley School, founded in 1968, students and staff run the school together through a democratic structure in which every staff member and student has one vote in every decision made by the School Meeting. With no curriculum, no required academics, no testing and a daily schedule left up to each student to decide for themselves, students at A&I are free to learn, explore, and reflect at their own pace in a way that works best for them. The result is graduates who are self-directed, motivated, and prepared for college, careers, and, most importantly, life.
Baltimore Lab School
ADDRESS: 2220 Saint Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21218 WEBSITE: baltimorelabschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-261-5500 TUITION & FEES: Contact BLS admissions for tuition info: kelly.keesler@baltimorelabschool.org TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 115 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling admission OPEN HOUSE DATES: Spring and fall open houses; visit baltimorelabschool.org for specific dates SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: 1-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 2000 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Baltimore Lab School, located in the Charles Village neighborhood of Baltimore, is a co-educational, nonpublic school that for more than 25 years has helped bright students (grades 1–12) with dyslexia, ADHD, and language-based learning differences excel—growing in confidence, curiosity, and joy. With small classes averaging just 6 students, the school pairs innovative, arts-integrated instruction grounded in research with intensive, structured reading instruction designed to build essential literacy skills. Speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and executive function coaching are woven directly into the school day. A proven college and career preparation path guides students toward life after graduation, with 85 percent of graduates going on to enroll in college. Baltimore Lab School also offers a four-week summer program blending targeted academics with hands-on, creative learning to keep students engaged all summer long. Here, students who learn differently discover what’s possible when school truly fits.
DIRECTORY Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School
ADDRESS: 3300 Old Court Road, Baltimore, MD 21208 WEBSITE: bethtfiloh.com/school PHONE NUMBER: 410-413-2323 TUITION & FEES: $4,000-$27,600 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 850 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2026; applications received after December 15 will be processed on a rolling basis when space is available. OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to bethtfiloh.com/ admissions/visit for group tour dates and times. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-12, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1942 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Jewish OVERVIEW: As Baltimore’s premier Jewish private school, serving preschool through grade 12, Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School (BT) provides a learning environment where students become self-reliant scholars and discover their unique potential. BT students learn how to advocate for themselves, ask difficult questions, and pursue their aspirations. BT combines rigorous academics with character development in a warm, caring, and supportive atmosphere. Small class sizes allow BT’s outstanding educators to provide their students personalized attention and to champion each child’s needs. Teachers are focused on developing minds, celebrating the joy of Judaism, instilling values, and fostering curiosity to prepare their students for future success and to create positive change in the world. BT’s unparalleled, individualized college guidance program ensures that 100% of BT seniors who apply to a four-year university get accepted to the one that is right for them.
The Boys’ Latin School of Maryland
ADDRESS: 822 West Lake Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: boyslatinmd.com PHONE NUMBER: 410-377-5192 TUITION & FEES: $22,750-$41,200 (PK-12, day); $61,400 (9-12, boarding) TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 630 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATE: September 27, 2026, 10 a.m. SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, boys; boarding available for students in grades 9-12 GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1844 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-sectarian OVERVIEW: The Boys’ Latin School of Maryland is an independent school serving boys in grades Pre-k-12. With more than 180 years of experience, Boys’ Latin is a recognized leader in all-boys education, continually striving to do what is best for boys. Boys’ Latin’s intentionally small size and all-boys environment create the ideal setting for
boys to learn, grow and thrive. At Boys’ Latin, every student is known—for who he is today and all he can become tomorrow. Boys’ Latin sets high academic standards, challenging students to reach their full potential so they can learn and earn the results of hard work. Whether designing championship-winning robots, collaborating on multivariate calculus problems or discussing global issues, Boys’ Latin boys develop essential skills of collaboration, creativity and critical thinking. Nothing is more important, however, than for each boy to hone and sharpen his character. That’s why timeless values—courage, compassion and integrity—are woven into every aspect of school life. As a small school where every boy is known, they focus on shaping boys and young men into responsible, grounded and moral citizens. The results speak for themselves. Boys’ Latin graduates go on to attend a wide range of institutions, including small liberal arts colleges, large public universities, Ivy League schools, engineering and technology universities, military academies, art schools and music conservatories. When they leave Boys’ Latin, they are prepared for the future and ready to make their mark on the world.
The Bryn Mawr School
ADDRESS: 109 West Melrose Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: brynmawrschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-323-8800 TUITION & FEES: $26,000-$44,470 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 840 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2026, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: Saturday, October 24, 2026: pre-kgrade 5, 9 a.m.-10:15 a.m.; grades 6-12, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Check brynmawrschool.org/visit-bryn-mawr for more details and additional visiting opportunities for students and families. SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls pre-k-12; co-ed infant care and preschool GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k-12, includes preschool and infant care YEAR FOUNDED: 1885 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: The Bryn Mawr School is an independent all-girls pre-kindergarten through 12th grade school with a co-ed preschool and infant care. Bryn Mawr is known for its inquisitive girls, excellent teaching, strong student-teacher relationships, and spirited sisterhood. At Bryn Mawr, girls lead, question, achieve, succeed, and are passionate about lifelong learning. In the classroom, on the fields and playground, across the stage, and in the studio, Bryn Mawr raises the bar for girls and supports them as they achieve more than they ever thought possible. Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 59
DIRECTORY Calvert School
ADDRESS: 105 Tuscany Road, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: calvertschoolmd.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-243-6054 TUITION & FEES: $23,900-$34,975 bundled tuition (includes supplies, daily lunch and snack, athletics, and more) TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 645 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to calvertschoolmd.org/ discover for dates and times, and details on Middle Schoolfocused sessions. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K- 8 and the Kiddie Calvert early childhood education center YEAR FOUNDED: 1897 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Located in central Baltimore, Calvert School is a co-ed k-8 school that inspires each child to lead a life of purpose by providing a strong foundation in academic skills and character development. Students learn and grow in a joyful and nurturing community that cultivates intellectual curiosity, confidence, and a deep appreciation for learning. As experts in elementary and middle school education, Calvert teachers know that these years contain the most important developmental experiences of a child’s life—and all members of the community are committed to helping students discover their passions and hone their skills in the classroom, on stage, on the sports field, and beyond. Through robust co-curriculars like athletics, drama, and community engagement with Calvert’s Institute for Leadership & Purpose, students are empowered to broaden their perspectives and become multifaceted leaders.
Cambridge School
ADDRESS: 6200 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21212 WEBSITE: cambridgeschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-486-3686 TUITION & FEES: $16,324-$17,066 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 120 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 18, 2026, rolling admission if space is available OPEN HOUSE DATES: Admissions events every week this fall. Register for Open Houses, Coffee & Conversations, and tours at cambridgeschool.org/admissions. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1998 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Christian, non-denominational OVERVIEW: Cambridge School offers a classical, Christcentered education for k–8 students, nurturing their innate wonder and curiosity about the world. Rather than simply imparting information, Cambridge unfolds knowledge organically, helping students see the deeper connections between subjects and life itself. Through a rich, integrated 60 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
curriculum, students explore literature, history, art, and music, not as isolated disciplines, but as part of a greater whole. Each lesson builds on the next, contributing to a broader, more meaningful understanding, like savoring a slice of cake rather than tasting its ingredients separately. At Cambridge, learning is immersive. Students are encouraged to absorb, reflect on, and relive historical moments, empathize with literary characters, and engage deeply with timeless ideas. This approach fosters critical thinking, compassion, and a lifelong love of learning. By engaging with truths that transcend mere facts, Cambridge students evolve from passive learners into active participants, curious, thoughtful, and eager to discover and grow.
The Catholic High School of Baltimore
ADDRESS: 2800 Edison Highway, Baltimore, MD 21213 WEBSITE: thecatholichighschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-732-6200 TUITION & FEES: $18,400; $1,200 fees TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 250 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 11, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATE: October 24, 2026, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls GRADE LEVELS: 9- 12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1939 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Roman Catholic, rooted in the Franciscan tradition (founded by the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia) OVERVIEW: Empowered by the Gospel values and rooted in the spirit and tradition of Saints Francis and Clare of Assisi, The Catholic High School of Baltimore, a sponsored institution of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Philadelphia, is dedicated to the education of young women in an environment that challenges them to academic excellence, responsible leadership, and Christian community service. Catholic High offers rigorous academic pathways such as Honors, College Preparatory, STEM Program (Engineering, Biomedical, and Sports Medicine courses), McCafferty Visual and Performing Arts Program, Law and Leadership in the Franciscan Tradition, and the Archangel Program for individualized learning support. Through a partnership with the Community College of Baltimore County, students have a variety of opportunities to earn college credit. Catholic High young women thrive in a small, close-knit community that combines service, academics, leadership, and athletics, allowing them to reach their full potential and prepare them for continued success beyond high school.
Concordia Preparatory School
ADDRESS: 1145 Concordia Drive, Towson, MD 21286 WEBSITE: concordiaprepschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-825-2323 TUITION & FEES: $13,500-$19,000 (additional fees for specific academic and support programs)
DIRECTORY DIRECTORY TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 500+ APPLICATION DEADLINE: Wednesday, December 16, 2026 (admissions accepted after due date, pending availability) OPEN HOUSE DATE: Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: 6-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1965 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Lutheran Church Missouri-Synod. Concordia Prep welcomes students from all backgrounds and religions. OVERVIEW: Concordia Preparatory School is a compassionate, Christ-centered community of servant leaders. Started in 1965 as Baltimore Lutheran School, Concordia Prep has a rich history of excellence in education, faith development, and community service. At Concordia Prep, students will find a supportive learning environment that nurtures their spiritual, academic, physical, and social growth to become faithful servant leaders with focus on the core values of faith, integrity, service, leadership, and community. In addition to honors and advanced placement courses, Concordia Prep offers the Academic Pathways, a program designed to prepare students for future careers in mathematics, health sciences, and computer science along with an honors track, and an Academic Mentorship Program (AMP). Concordia Prep also offers the Giguere Program for college-bound students with learning differences. Eighty percent of the student body participates in the school’s outstanding fine arts program: art, chorus, band, and theatre. Concordia Prep offers competitive sports teams for both upper and middle school students. It’s always a great day to be the Concordia Prep Saints!
Fells Point – The New Century School
ADDRESS: 724 S. Ann Street, Baltimore, MD 21231 WEBSITE: thenewcenturyschool.com PHONE NUMBER: 410-929-4113 TUITION & FEES: $11,830-$18,350 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 170 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2026, rolling admissions thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: October 24, 2026. Please register at thenewcenturyschool.com/open-house. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 2007 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Located in historic Fells Point, The New Century School (TNCS) is an independent private school for preschool through 8th grade. TNCS combines a Montessori-inspired, inquiry-based curriculum with rigorous academics and a genuine community feel. Welcoming and celebrating every family is as central to the TNCS mission as academic excellence.
What Sets TNCS Apart: • Small, mixed-age classes built around hands-on discovery and critical thinking • STEM, music, and visual arts integrated at every grade level • Spanish and Mandarin Chinese instruction, embedded in a curriculum that honors world cultures and global citizenship • A middle school program featuring real-world capstone experiences, including international travel •Core values—compassion, courage, respect, and service— practiced daily TNCS students graduate prepared for Baltimore’s competitive high schools, and for life beyond them. One school, one community—preschool through 8th grade. Schedule a personal campus visit at thenewcenturyschool. com/admissions.
Friends School of Baltimore
ADDRESS: 5114 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21210-2096 WEBSITE: friendsbalt.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-649-3200 TUITION & FEES: $26,500-$41,200 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 810 (ages 6 weeks-grade 12) APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATES: First Look @ Friends Open Houses: October 14, 2026, November 14, 2026, December 9, 2026, and April 7, 2027. Please refer to friendsbalt.org/admission/ visit-friends. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k–12; Little Friends Early Learning Center includes care for children 6 weeks to 4 years old YEAR FOUNDED: 1784 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Quaker OVERVIEW: Friends School of Baltimore is a private, Quaker, inclusive, college preparatory school for students in pre-K through grade 12. Founded in 1784 as Baltimore’s first school, Friends has been guided for more than 240 years by the Quaker values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship. In a world where information is abundant but wisdom is scarce, Friends provides a human-centered education that prepares students to navigate complexity, work across differences, and lead with integrity. Academic rigor, reflective inquiry, creative challenge, and collaboration develop discerning thinkers who are prepared for college and equipped for life. Students engage fully across academics, athletics, and the arts in an environment that encourages curiosity, independence, and meaningful exploration. Guided by exceptional teachers who know each student well, they develop the judgment, confidence, and character to thrive in a rapidly changing world. When students begin their journey at Friends, they are prepared to go anywhere. Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 61
DIRECTORY Garrison Forest School
ADDRESS: 300 Garrison Forest Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117 WEBSITE: gfs.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-363-1500 TUITION & FEES: $21,185 - $43,205 (preschool to grade 12, day); $70,475 (8-12, boarding) TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 540 APPLICATION DEADLINES: January 15, 2027 (day), January 31, 2027 (boarding) OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please visit gfs.org/visit for upcoming dates and times. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed preschool; single sex, girls; boarding program, grades 8-12 GRADE LEVELS: K-12, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1910 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Garrison Forest School (GFS) is where Women of Impact get their start. Students thrive at GFS, where they can be their authentic selves as they lead, create and innovate with confidence. Dedicated, highly engaged faculty members know each student and what’s important to them. The 110-acre GFS campus gives students the space to explore, featuring an outdoor classroom for younger students, state-of-the-art athletic fields and an equestrian center that is home to nationally recognized riding and polo programs. The spirited, supportive and joyful community includes national and international boarding students in grades 8-12 who find a welcoming home base and vibrant community where they are supported by on-campus faculty residents. Garrison Forest School serves all girls in grades K-12 and offers a co-ed preschool program.
Gerstell Academy
ADDRESS: 2500 Old Westminster Pike, Finksburg, MD 21048 WEBSITE: gerstell.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-861-3300 TUITION & FEES: $17,420-$31,950 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 400 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 31, 2027, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please visit gerstell.org for Open House dates and events. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1996 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-sectarian OVERVIEW: Gerstell Academy is a co-educational, non-sectarian private school for students entering prekindergarten through grade 12, dedicated to the mission and motto: Leadership, Honor, Courage. The school’s unique values-based approach to education is based on four pillars: 62 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
leadership, rigorous academics, physical training/athletics and modern language proficiency. With a beautiful 250acre campus located in Carroll County, Maryland, Gerstell Academy has the reputation as one of the top academic schools in the region. Gerstell Academy’s unparalleled resources provide students with excellent faculty, stateof-the-art facilities and a unique approach to learning and leadership. Competitive athletics allow students the opportunity to showcase their talents and sportsmanship in a variety of team sports. A diverse student body contributes to a strong sense of community where each student’s potential to learn, to grow morally, to be physically fit and to compete is maximized as Gerstell Academy’s young leaders prepare to make a positive contribution to society.
Gilman School
ADDRESS: 5407 Roland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: gilman.edu PHONE NUMBER: 410-323-3800 TUITION & FEES: $23,535-$41,775 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 1,050 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Monday, December 14, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to gilman.edu/admissions for information about visiting days. SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, boys GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1897 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Gilman is a pre-k through grade 12 independent all-boys school located in the Roland Park neighborhood of Baltimore. Known for its dedication to educating boys in mind, body, and spirit with an eye toward growing boys into men of character, Gilman understands how boys learn best and celebrates each one on his individual journey. With an unmatched academic rigor, a strong athletic program that emphasizes both skill and sportsmanship, and a myriad of artistic opportunities, Gilman strives to unlock the greatness of each boy in a diverse and inclusive community. The pursuit of excellence begins at Gilman.
DIRECTORY DIRECTORY Glenelg Country School
ADDRESS: 12793 Folly Quarter Road, Ellicott City, MD 21042 WEBSITE: glenelg.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-531-8600 TUITION & FEES: $15,910-$39,500 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 830 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2026, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please visit glenelg.org/visit for Open House dates and times. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Age 2 – Grade 12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1954 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Glenelg Country School is a nonsectarian, coeducational independent school serving students from age 2 through grade 12 on a 90-acre campus in Howard County. GCS provides a challenging, student-centered education within a welcoming community where every learner is known, supported, and encouraged to thrive. Small classes and strong relationships allow teachers to understand each student’s strengths, interests, and goals. Rigorous academics are complemented by opportunities in the arts, athletics, service, leadership, and hands-on learning, helping students develop confidence, curiosity, and independence. Students of all ages share one campus and a common commitment to integrity, respect, responsibility, and purpose. With dedicated faculty, exceptional facilities, and expansive outdoor spaces, GCS prepares students not only for what comes next, but to contribute meaningfully wherever their paths lead.
The GreenMount School
ADDRESS: 501 W. 30th Street, Baltimore, MD 21211 WEBSITE: greenmountschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-235-6295 TUITION & FEES: $16,600 - $17,400 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 110 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 16, 2026, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: Sunday, October 18, 2026. Please refer to greenmountschool.org for more information and “Glimpse of GreenMount” tours! SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1993 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: The GreenMount School (GMS) is a small, coeducational K-8 school of just 110 students. Its close-knit community offers a unique advantage: faculty and staff truly know every single child—their quirks, their strengths, and
exactly how to help them grow. GMS doesn’t merely focus on gaining knowledge, but on developing wisdom through challenging, hands-on, and immersive learning that brings complex topics to life in a real-world context. Because GMS operates as a co-op, parents are seen as vital partners whose involvement is at the heart of every student’s success. Daily life at the school provides fresh opportunities for students to live out GMS’s core values: to engage deeply, care for one another, and include every voice. GMS is a warm, collaborative community where children don’t just learn, they belong.
Greenspring Montessori School
ADDRESS: 10807 Tony Drive, Lutherville-Timonium, MD 21093 WEBSITE: greenspringmontessori.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-321-8555 TUITION & FEES: $18,400 - $32,140 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 245 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 31, 2026, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: Please refer to greenspringmontessori. org/admissions/early-childhood-admission/ for tour dates and times. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: 18 months - 8th grade YEAR FOUNDED: 1962 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: At Greenspring Montessori School, children are encouraged to become confident, capable, and compassionate learners who are prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world. Serving students from 18 months through middle school, Greenspring’s individualized Montessori approach honors each child’s unique interests, abilities, and pace of development. Students learn through hands-on exploration, meaningful collaboration, and uninterrupted work that builds independence, critical thinking, and a genuine love of learning. Distinctive programs—including a Spanish-English Dual Language program, immersive outdoor education, and a screen-free environment—help children develop strong academic foundations while fostering creativity, resilience, and global awareness. In a close-knit community where every child is known and supported, students are empowered to discover their strengths, cultivate their voice, and develop the confidence to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 63
DIRECTORY Harford Day School
ADDRESS: 715 Moores Mill Road, Bel Air, MD 21014 WEBSITE: harfordday.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-838-4848 TUITION & FEES: $19,965-$24,790 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 335 APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 1, 2027 OPEN HOUSE DATE: Please visit harfordday.org/visit SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Preschool (age 3) - grade 8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1957 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: At Harford Day School, Harford County’s preeminent independent school for children age 3 to grade 8, a passionate, talented faculty, small classes, innovative curriculum, and an inclusive atmosphere are driven by their mission, “At Harford Day School, learning is a joyful process rooted in respectful relationships, strong traditions, and an innovative program that fosters confidence, imagination, curiosity, and engagement with the world.” Committed to supporting children and their families through these crucial learning years, Harford Day students not only master fundamental skills but also develop character by learning the values of empathy, perseverance, integrity, community, and growth. Harford Day School graduates regularly achieve 100% admission to their first-choice high schools throughout the Baltimore metro area and beyond, with many earning merit awards.
The Highlands School
ADDRESS: 2409 Creswell Road, Bel Air, MD 21015 WEBSITE: hsmd.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-836-1415 TUITION & FEES: $21,250 (grades k-2); $30,750 (grades 3-8); $15,200 (home school extension); $18,025 (homeschool plus) TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 80 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Monday, January 11, 2027 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Multiple throughout the year; please refer to hsmd.org for Open House dates and times. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1996 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: The Highlands School is a K–8 independent school serving students with learning differences and achievement gaps. Located on a beautiful 18-acre campus in Bel Air, just off I-95 (exit 80), The Highlands School offers a full-time day program, homeschool extension, summer academic and enrichment camps, and tutoring for students of all ages, including test preparation. 64 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
The Highlands’ signature instructional model combines individualized learning with a vibrant school community. Students receive phonics, reading comprehension, and math instruction in small groups of no more than four, while core classes—including science, social studies, art, physical education, and music—are capped at 14 students per grade. Executive functioning and social confidence are taught explicitly every day and reinforced throughout the curriculum. The school’s Hands-On Highlands program immerses students in multidisciplinary, project-based learning through robotics, woodworking, home economics, agriculture, and more. Students also enjoy a wide variety of extracurricular and after-school opportunities that foster confidence, creativity, and connection.
Jemicy School
ADDRESSES: Lower and Middle School Campus - 11 Celadon Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117 Upper School Campus – 11202 Garrison Forest Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117 WEBSITE: jemicyschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-653-2700 TUITION & FEES: $44,746-$46,670 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 440 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Monday, January 11, 2027; if space available, rolling admission after January 11. OPEN HOUSE DATE: Contact Jemicy School at jemicyadmissionoffice@jemicyschool.org to schedule a tour or attend an information session. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: 1-12 and Upper School Prep Program YEAR FOUNDED: 1973 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Jemicy School, founded in 1973 and accredited by AIMS, is a co-educational, independent school that provides a highly individualized, flexible, and challenging program for talented and bright, college-bound students (grades 1-12) with dyslexia or other related languagebased learning differences. The school addresses students’ intellectual strengths and their learning needs by utilizing creative, multisensory, research-based programs and techniques to develop reading, writing, spelling, math, and organization skills; promote a love of learning; and prepare students for the intellectual and social challenges of college and life. In addition to its robust academic program, Jemicy offers superb visual and performing arts, athletic, and extracurricular programs and activities as well as comprehensive college counseling guidance. Summer programs for grades 1-8 offer a wealth of academic and recreational options.
DIRECTORY DIRECTORY Key School
ADDRESS: 534 Hillsmere Drive, Annapolis, MD 21403 WEBSITE: keyschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-263-9231 TUITION & FEES: $10,875-$37,185; 35% of families receive financial aid, and merit aid is available TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 670 APPLICATION DEADLINES: First & Lower School – December 15, 2026; Middle & Upper School - January 15, 2027. Rolling admission thereafter. OPEN HOUSE DATE: Please refer to keyschool.org/ admission for Open House information. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-12, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1958 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Key is renowned for its rigorous academic program, which emphasizes inquiry-based learning and interdisciplinary study. Students are challenged to think deeply, connect ideas across subjects, and ask bold questions. A dynamic curriculum prepares students not just for college, but for a lifetime of intellectual engagement and ethical leadership. At Key, learning isn’t about memorization; it’s about mastery. And the outcomes? Unparalleled. Key students engage deeply with ideas, stretch their capacities in every direction—from academics to arts to athletics—and leave with more than accolades. They leave with a sense of purpose, a habit of self-advocacy, and the tools to make a meaningful impact on our world.
Krieger Schechter Day School
Loyola Blakefield
ADDRESS: 500 Chestnut Avenue, Towson, MD 21204 WEBSITE: loyolablakefield.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-823-0601 TUITION & FEES: Middle: $25,300 + fees; Upper: $26,300 + fees TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 1,000 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 11, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATE: October 17, 2026. Please refer to loyolablakefield.org/openhouse. SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, boys GRADE LEVELS: 6-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1852 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic, Jesuit OVERVIEW: Loyola Blakefield is a Catholic, Jesuit, college preparatory school founded in 1852, for boys in grades 6-12. Loyola Blakefield offers a challenging college preparatory curriculum that provides a broad range of major course offerings including honors and advanced placement courses, complemented by a selection of enriching electives and cocurricular activities. Ignatian service and spiritual formation, in the Jesuit tradition, is the hallmark of a Loyola education. There are 17 interscholastic sports programs at Loyola Blakefield, as well as musical and dramatic performing arts ensembles, and many clubs and student organizations. Loyola Blakefield forms men to serve with and for others. The Loyola student is preparing to graduate as a man of integrity, who, because he strives “to find God in all things,” is open to growth, intellectually ambitious, religious, loving, and committed to diversity and doing justice.
ADDRESS: 8100 Stevenson Road, Baltimore, MD 21208 WEBSITE: ksds.edu PHONE NUMBER: 410-486-8640 TUITION & FEES: $23,600-$26,300 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 278 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling and continuous admission option OPEN HOUSE DATE: No Open House; interested families are encouraged to contact Nissa Weinberg, Director of Admissions, nweinberg@ksds.edu, for a personal tour. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1981 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Jewish OVERVIEW: Krieger Schechter Day School is a coeducational, k–8 independent day school with high academic standards and a foundation of Jewish values. The school is committed to shaping intellectually engaged young people of strong character with a deep commitment to their Jewish identity. Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 65
DIRECTORY Maryland International School
ADDRESS: 6135 Old Washington Road, Elkridge, MD 21075 WEBSITE: marylandinternationalschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-220-3792 TUITION & FEES: $16,250-$24,200 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 225 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling admission OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please refer to marylandinternationalschool.org/openhouse/ for Open House dates and times. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: 1-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 2017 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: Maryland International School (MDIS) is a private, International Baccalaureate World School located on a beautiful 9-acre campus in Howard County, offering grades 1-12. MDIS is the only school in the state of Maryland, and the second in the entire mid-Atlantic region, to offer all 3 IB programmes: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). MDIS’s mission is to provide an academically rigorous and supportive college-preparatory education with an interdisciplinary and applied focus on the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines in order to prepare students to become creative problem solvers, effective communicators, and tomorrow’s leaders who think ethically, independently, and globally. The academic program at MDIS integrates the IB curriculum with STEM-specific programs and pathways, including Project Lead the Way. High school students can earn up to 30 college credits by earning an IB Diploma.
Maryvale Preparatory School
ADDRESS: 11300 Falls Road, Lutherville, MD 21093 WEBSITE: maryvale.com PHONE NUMBER: 410-252-3366 TUITION & FEES: Upper School: $27,500; Middle School: $27,025; Fees: Security - $375, Technology - $375, Activity - $460 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 475 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 11, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Meet Maryvale: Upper School Tuesday, October 20, 2026; Middle School - Thursday, October 22, 2026 SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls GRADE LEVELS: 6-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1945 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic 66 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
OVERVIEW: Maryvale Preparatory School, a Catholic, independent girls’ school for grades 6–12, was founded by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in 1945. Maryvale challenges students to think critically, communicate effectively, and lead with purpose. With a personalized, student-centered approach, Maryvale tailors each student’s journey to her strengths and goals. In the Upper School, every student is paired with an academic advisor who ensures her schedule aligns with her learning style, interests, and ambitions. Maryvale’s strong curriculum, enriched by experiential learning and mentorship, prepares girls for success in college and beyond. Set on 100+ inspiring acres, the campus nurtures growth in and beyond the classroom. Join Maryvale as they honor more than eight decades of empowering young women through transformative education.
McDonogh School
ADDRESS: 8600 McDonogh Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117 WEBSITE: mcdonogh.org PHONE NUMBER: 443-544-7020 TUITION & FEES: $26,800-$44,600 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 1,450 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Friday, December 4, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATE: Visit mcdonogh.org/admissions for details on information sessions and campus tours. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed; five-day boarding option for grades 9-12 GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1873 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: McDonogh is an independent, co-educational day and five-day boarding school that enrolls students in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade. Providing life-altering educational opportunities that inspire joy in learning and promote personal and intellectual growth is at the heart of the McDonogh experience. The school’s talented and caring teachers prepare students to lead and be a force for good in a rapidly changing world. In addition to state-of-the-art academic, art, and athletic facilities, McDonogh’s 800-acre campus provides countless opportunities for exploration. A unique highlight is Roots, a 10-acre farm where students experience hands-on learning. McDonogh’s fleet of 20 buses serves Baltimore City and surrounding counties. The five-day boarding option allows upper school students to experience activities, traditions, spirit, and community to the fullest.
DIRECTORY DIRECTORY Mercy High School
ADDRESS: 1300 East Northern Parkway, Baltimore, MD 21239 WEBSITE: mercyhighschool.com PHONE NUMBER: 410-433-8880 TUITION & FEES: $20,500 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 445 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 11, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATE: Saturday, October 17, 2026, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Registration is required and can be completed at mercyhighschool.com. SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls GRADE LEVELS: 9-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1960 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: At Mercy High School, girls are empowered to learn with confidence and creativity, taking them beyond the bounds of expectation, and preparing them to become the Women of Mercy our world needs. Sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy is dedicated to building a strong foundation of excellence, hospitality, service, justice, and compassion—the foundation of a Mercy education. The spirit of innovation for which the Sisters of Mercy are known is carried forward through one-of-a-kind experiential learning and research opportunities, internships, service, travel, leadership experiences, and real-world partnerships that deepen understanding and build confidence. Mercy’s International Baccalaureate Program and Signature Programs are redefining the meaning of academic excellence as Mercy Girls explore college, career, and beyond. As Mercy Girls explore their interests and build lifelong sisterhood within a modern 26-acre campus, more than 80 exceptional faculty and staff challenge them to learn to lead with authenticity and purpose.
Mount de Sales Academy for Girls
ADDRESS: 700 Academy Road, Catonsville, MD 21228 WEBSITE: mountdesalesacademy.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-744-8498 TUITION & FEES: $20,800 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 460 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 11, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATE: Sunday, November 1, 2026 SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls GRADE LEVELS: 9-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1852 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic
OVERVIEW: Entering its 175th year, Mount de Sales Academy empowers young women to develop their Godgiven talents through academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community. In a supportive environment where every student is known, girls are challenged to think deeply and pursue intellectual inquiry. Mount de Sales offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with four levels of instruction, including 15 AP courses and 39 honors classes, preparing students for success in college and beyond. Reflecting the strength of its academic program, Mount de Sales has maintained a 100% college acceptance rate, and the Class of 2026 was offered more than $21 million in merit scholarships. Students also pursue passions in athletics, clubs, and fine arts within a vibrant community that encourages leadership, service, and lives of purpose.
Mount Saint Joseph High School
ADDRESS: 4403 Frederick Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21229 WEBSITE: msjnet.edu PHONE NUMBER: 410-646-6218 TUITION & FEES: $21,495 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 800+ APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 11, 2026, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: November 8, 2026, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Register at msjnet.edu/openhouse. SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, boys GRADE LEVELS: 9-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1876 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: As a Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School, Mount Saint Joseph offers young men a rigorous academic program steeped in the Xaverian values of humility, simplicity, compassion, trust, and zeal. At Mount Saint Joseph, students belong to a lifelong brotherhood founded on faith and to a legacy of change-making alumni who continue to give back to their alma mater. With a focus on experiential and service learning, independent research, retreats, and community projects, a Mount Saint Joseph education extends far beyond the classroom walls. Students are encouraged to participate in one—or several—of 50+ extracurricular activities and 17 interscholastic sports.
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DIRECTORY Notre Dame Preparatory School
ADDRESS: 815 Hampton Lane, Towson, MD 21286 WEBSITE: notredameprep.com PHONE NUMBER: 410-825-6202 TUITION & FEES: $25,750 tuition TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 816 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Friday, December 11, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATE: Saturday, October 17, 2026, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Please refer to notredameprep.com for details. SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls GRADE LEVELS: 6-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1873 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: Founded in 1873 by the School Sisters of Notre Dame, Notre Dame Preparatory School (NDP) educates young women to transform the world. A Catholic, independent school for girls in grades 6 through 12, NDP is an inclusive community committed to academic excellence, spiritual growth, and the practice of justice. The school offers a personalized, liberal arts-based education with signature programs for middle and high school students, including STEAM, humanities, the arts, and global languages. Opening in Fall 2026 is the Huffman Commons, a 12,300-square-foot multifunctional space designed to foster connection, support community activities, and enhance daily life. The learning resource center provides support for study skills, writing, reading, and math. The Women In… (WIN) program provides career exploration through handson experiences. Student clubs, meaningful traditions, and championship-level teams complement an NDP education. The school has the longest-running service program of any area high school. Notre Dame Prep’s Innovation Wing houses state-of-the-art facilities to support the school’s award-winning, seven-year STEAM program.
The Odyssey School
ADDRESS: 3257 Bridle Ridge Lane, Lutherville, MD 21093 WEBSITE: theodysseyschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-580-5551 TUITION & FEES: $44,050 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 167 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 15, 2027, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: Inside Odyssey, an open house for parents/guardians, will be held Thursday, January 21, 2027, 5:45 p.m.-8 p.m.; Snow Date: Thursday, January 28, 5:45 p.m.-8 p.m. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1994 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None 68 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
OVERVIEW: Founded in 1994 by a group of dedicated parents, The Odyssey School is a unique, co-educational community that provides specialized instruction for children with dyslexia and other language learning differences from kindergarten through 8th grade. Teachers utilize the most current evidence-based methodologies that empower students to build the skills and strategies needed to learn and thrive. Located on 42 acres in the Greenspring Valley of Baltimore County, the school offers explicit reading and writing instruction in both daily tutoring and content classes, development of self-advocacy and executive function skills, as well as strength-based opportunities to showcase students’ talents and passions including art, music, drama, middle school clubs, extracurricular sports, and community service. What begins here changes everything.
The Park School of Baltimore
ADDRESS: 2425 Old Court Road, Baltimore, MD 21208 WEBSITE: parkschool.net PHONE NUMBER: 410-339-7070 TUITION & FEES: $23,650-$42,685 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 786 APPLICATION DEADLINES: December 1 (Pre-K-Grade 5), December 15 (Grades 6-12) OPEN HOUSE DATES: Please join us at one or more of our Admission events to learn about the Park philosophy, curriculum, co-curricular programming, and community. Some events are designed specifically for parents, some are geared towards children, and others are designed for the entire family. Please visit our website for the most upto-date information on ways to experience Park. We look forward to welcoming you. SCHOOL TYPE: Gender-inclusive GRADE LEVELS: Pre-K through Grade 12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1912 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Non-sectarian OVERVIEW: The Park School of Baltimore is a progressive school educating students from Pre-Kindergarten (age 4) through Grade 12 on a 100-acre wooded campus two miles north of the city line. A gender inclusive school founded over 110 years ago, Park is a leading progressive institution in Baltimore, serving as a model for other schools, and emphasizing child-centered, individualized education that encourages a high degree of engagement with academics, the community, and the natural world. To get to know Park, talk to a student, engage a faculty member, follow the paths of its alumni, and consider the school’s mission statement: Devoted to intellectual inquiry, a collaborative spirit of learning, and an appreciation for the diversity of human experience, The Park School of Baltimore is a community founded on positive expectations of our students and respect for individual differences. We cultivate children’s innate curiosity by nurturing their interests and engaging them as active participants in their own education. We support young people in becoming confident questioners and responsible citizens of the world.
DIRECTORY DIRECTORY Roland Park Country School
ADDRESS: 5204 Roland Park Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: rpcs.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-323-5500 TUITION & FEES: $33,500-$42,900 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 580 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATE: Saturday, October 3, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Learn more and register at rpcs.org/visit. SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls, k-12; co-ed preschool GRADE LEVELS: K-12, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1894 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: At Roland Park Country School (RPCS), girls and young women thrive in a vibrant, inclusive community where they are empowered to support one another and pursue their passions with confidence. For over a century, RPCS has balanced tradition with innovation, cultivating intellectual curiosity, emotional intelligence, and a strong sense of purpose. Students are encouraged to think critically, lead collaboratively, and grow into resilient, compassionate changemakers. With the support of dedicated faculty and a close-knit sisterhood, RPCS graduates leave with a clear sense of who they are and the courage to boldly lead for the greater good—in college and beyond. Roland Park Country School’s Little Reds co-ed early childhood program for infants to pre-kindergarten embraces the Reggio Emilia-inspired philosophy which emphasizes rich and deep learning through stimulating experiences.
Severn School
ADDRESSES: Teel Campus – 201 Water Street, Severna Park, MD 21146 Chesapeake Campus – 1185 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd., Arnold, MD WEBSITE: severnschool.com PHONE NUMBER: 410-647-7700 TUITION & FEES: $11,060 (half-day preschool) - $34,500 (grades 6-12) TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 915 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 4, 2027 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Chesapeake Campus (preschool to grade 5) – October 9, 9 a.m.; Teel Campus (grades 6-12) – October 15, 7 p.m. Please refer to severnschool.com/ open-house for information and registration links for all fall admission events. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-12, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1914 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None
OVERVIEW: Severn School is an independent coeducational college preparatory day school for students in preschool through grade 12, located in Severna Park, MD. More than just a school, Severn is a vibrant learning community where every student has the potential to be a leader. Severn Admirals learn that education isn’t solely about the facts you know but about discovering who you are and how you can make a difference with that knowledge. Though intentionally small in size, Severn offers an expansive range of opportunities that rival even the largest schools. Severn students have endless opportunities to try new things and expand their intellectual horizons, while also establishing a strong academic foundation. Curiosity, courage, and community are central to the Severn experience. Students are at the very heart of Severn’s caring and connected community. From their first day as an Admiral, every Severn student is on a journey designed to instill in them the intellectual agility, integrity, and knowledge necessary for success in an ever-changing world.
St. James Academy
ADDRESS: 3100 Monkton Road, Monkton, MD 21111 WEBSITE: saintjamesacademy.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-771-4816 TUITION & FEES: $5,422-$24,970 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 420 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 8, 2027, rolling admission thereafter when spaces are available OPEN HOUSE DATE: October 15, 2026, 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Preschool – grade 8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1821 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Episcopal OVERVIEW: St. James Academy is an independent preschool through grade 8 school where students are encouraged to be curious, confident, and engaged in their learning. With a strong academic foundation and a warm, close-knit community, SJA partners with families to help students discover their unique strengths and passions. Through hands-on, project-based learning, students make meaningful connections between classroom concepts and real-world experiences. In a supportive environment, they build lasting relationships with teachers and peers while growing both academically and personally. Whether in the classroom, on the stage, or on the field, students are challenged to explore, create, and thrive.
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DIRECTORY St. John’s Lutheran School
ADDRESS: 13300 Manor Road, Glen Arm, MD 21057 WEBSITE: stjohnlutheranschool.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-592-8019 TUITION & FEES: $2,000-$9,000 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 90 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling admission OPEN HOUSE DATE: Please refer to stjohnlutheranschool. org for ways to visit. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Preschool 2s - grade 5 YEAR FOUNDED: 1955 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Lutheran OVERVIEW: At St. John’s Lutheran School in Glen Arm, Maryland, they cherish the belief that “children are our future.” Rooted in Christian values and approved by the Maryland State Department of Education, the school nurtures each child intellectually, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. St. John’s Lutheran School is excited to launch 1st grade in 2026-2027, then add one grade per year through 5th grade, forming a comprehensive early childhood and elementary school that offers a seamless, faith-based educational journey. The school prioritizes small class sizes to enhance learning. Teachers provide personalized instruction, address individual needs, and build strong relationships. This approach fosters greater engagement, motivation, and emotional development, creating a supportive environment where students thrive academically and socially. Since 1995, St. John’s Lutheran School’s dedicated staff has provided a safe, nurturing environment where every child is valued as God’s unique gift. Families can trust St. John’s for a purpose-driven education rooted in faith, community, and academic excellence.
St. John’s Parish Day School
ADDRESS: 9130 Frederick Road, Ellicott City, MD 21042 WEBSITE: stjohnspds.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-465-7644 TUITION & FEES: $6,000-$18,000, varied by program TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 335 APPLICATION DEADLINE: January 15, 2027, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATES: October 24, 2026, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. STEM and Open House Event January 23, 2027, 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-5, includes preschool YEAR FOUNDED: 1963 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Episcopal 70 | Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026
OVERVIEW: St. John’s Parish Day School (SJPDS) serves children ages 3 through grade 5 on a beautiful 14-acre campus. SJPDS incorporates the best of Episcopal education while maintaining the highest academic standards. Students benefit from small class sizes, differentiated instruction, thematic units, STEM experiences, and a strong, supportive community. The personalized learning approach and stimulating curriculum give students strong foundational tools to discover their individual gifts and grow as independent thinkers of sound character. The programs include STEM, World Language, media, art, music, daily chapel, and physical education. Maintaining intentionally small class sizes allows students to become confident, compassionate, bright young individuals who understand the importance of living a purpose-driven life. Students learn beyond the classroom and gain authentic cultural experiences through project-based learning and real-world applications. SJPDS graduates go on to attend the best schools in the region, but most importantly, they are active stewards of the world.
St. Paul’s Lutheran School
ADDRESS: 12022 Jerusalem Road, Kingsville, MD 21087 WEBSITE: sp-ls.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-592-8100 TUITION & FEES: $5,025-$9,800 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 183 APPLICATION DEADLINE: Rolling applications OPEN HOUSE DATE: Please refer to sp-ls.org. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k3 – grade 8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1949 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Lutheran OVERVIEW: St. Paul’s has been serving families for over 50 years and cherishes the opportunity to nurture, care for, educate, and guide the children in the community. St. Paul’s follows an academically enriching curriculum specializing in early childhood, elementary, and middle school education. Each specialized curriculum is designed to encourage the growth and development of children spiritually, academically, and emotionally. Each child’s education is based on the core values of Faith, Service, Integrity, and Excellence which cultivate well-rounded individuals.
St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School
ADDRESS: 11152 Falls Road, Brooklandville, MD 21022 WEBSITE: stpaulsmd.org/coed PHONE NUMBERS: PRESCHOOL: 410-823-0061 LOWER SCHOOL: 410-821-3060 TUITION & FEES: $20,000-$35,340 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 408 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2026
DIRECTORY DIRECTORY OPEN HOUSE DATES: Lower School: October 8, November 9, December 9, January 13. Visit stpaulsmd.org/coed/ admissions for a full list of opportunities to experience St. Paul’s and hear from students, faculty, and staff. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: 6 weeks – grade 4 YEAR FOUNDED: 1849 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Episcopal OVERVIEW: St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School is a coeducational, independent day school serving children from 6 weeks through grade 4 in two buildings on one campus in Brooklandville, Maryland. As part of The St. Paul’s Schools, St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School is where the youngest learners begin their academic journey. St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School believes it is never too early for girls and boys to start adventuring every day. The expert faculty nurture children’s natural curiosity through an abundance of handson learning experiences and vary instruction to ensure that each child is consistently engaged and appropriately challenged. The foundation for this educational approach is a positive and nurturing setting where children feel safe to explore.
St. Paul’s School for Boys
ADDRESS: 11152 Falls Road, Brooklandville, MD 21022 WEBSITE: stpaulsmd.org/boys PHONE NUMBER: 410-825-4400 TUITION & FEES: $39,560-$41,660 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 549 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Middle School: October 23, November 17, December 8; Upper School: October 21, November 20, December 8. Visit stpaulsmd.org/boys/admissions for a full list of opportunities to experience St. Paul’s and hear from students, faculty, and staff. SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, boys GRADE LEVELS: 5-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1849 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Episcopal OVERVIEW: St. Paul’s School for Boys (SP) is a collegepreparatory day school for boys in grades 5-12. At SP, boys thrive in an environment that provides a range of challenges and support and a world of opportunities, both in and out of the classroom. St. Paul’s offers the intensive International Baccalaureate (IB) program and immersive experiences for a wide range of levels. Boys develop strong bonds with peers and teachers and build a strong moral compass and the courage to positively impact their world. St. Paul’s School, St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School, and St. Paul’s School for Girls share a 120-acre campus, an Episcopal affiliation, and a mission to develop the intellect and character of their students. The St. Paul’s Schools are conveniently located in Brooklandville, Maryland, on Falls Road off I-695.
St. Paul’s School for Girls
ADDRESS: 11232 Falls Road, Brooklandville, MD 21022 WEBSITE: stpaulsmd.org/girls PHONE NUMBER: 410-823-6323 TUITION & FEES: $39,560-$41,660 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 484 APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 15, 2026 OPEN HOUSE DATES: Middle School: October 27, November 19, December 3, January 12; Upper School: October 20, November 10, December 1, January 12. Visit stpaulsmd.org/ girls/admissions for a full list of opportunities to experience SPSG and hear from students, faculty, and staff. SCHOOL TYPE: Single-sex, girls GRADE LEVELS: 5-12 YEAR FOUNDED: 1959 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Episcopal OVERVIEW: St. Paul’s School for Girls (SPSG) is an independent, college-preparatory school serving girls in grades 5-12. Grounded in the Episcopal values of respect, integrity, and spiritual growth, SPSG cultivates a bold and courageous community of unique girls who will use their education and ethics to improve their world. Through its extensive connections and alumnae network, the school provides unparalleled learning through independent projects, professional internships, community service, and nonprofit partnerships. As part of The St. Paul’s Schools, SPSG shares a campus with St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School and St. Paul’s School for Boys. As such, SPSG encourages and provides co-ed opportunities in and out of the classroom at just the right times. Students’ strengths are made stronger in an inclusive environment that feels like home, building not just lifelong skills, but lasting bonds.
Trinity School
ADDRESS: 4985 Ilchester Road, Ellicott City, MD 21043 WEBSITE: trinityschoolmd.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-744-1524 TUITION & FEES: $8,350-$17,640 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 235 APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 1, 2027 OPEN HOUSE DATE: Please refer to trinityschoolmd.org/ admissions for ways to visit. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Pre-k3—8 YEAR FOUNDED: 1941 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Catholic OVERVIEW: Trinity School is a PreK3 through grade 8 Catholic independent school in Howard County. The school maintains small class sizes in a nurturing, faithfilled environment with dedicated faculty and a supportive community. Trinity focuses on developing the whole child – academically, spiritually, and socially. At Trinity, students feel known, valued, challenged, and supported. Baltimore Fishbowl Independent School Guide 2026 | 71
DIRECTORY The Waldorf School of Baltimore
ADDRESS: 4801 Tamarind Road, Baltimore, MD 21209 WEBSITE: waldorfschoolofbaltimore.org PHONE NUMBER: 410-367-6808 TUITION & FEES: $9,850-$25,844 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 200 APPLICATION DEADLINE: February 1, 2027, rolling admission thereafter OPEN HOUSE DATE: Please refer to waldorschoolofbaltimore.org/visit for virtual open house information and ways to visit. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: K-8, includes preschool for ages 2.5-4 YEAR FOUNDED: 1971 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: None OVERVIEW: The Waldorf School of Baltimore: Education with Heart. Founded in 1971, the Waldorf School is a private, independent, inclusive day school that welcomes children from early childhood (preschool) through 8th grade. The school’s mission is to educate and inspire children to think, feel, and act with depth, imagination, and purpose. Believing that every child is an enthusiastic and engaged learner, the Waldorf School places a strong emphasis on creativity and the imagination in education. Waldorf Education offers a renaissance in learning, favoring hands-on, experiential academics over rote memorization and technological reliance. Students are immersed in a rigorous academic environment that fosters intellectual curiosity, emotional resiliency, and a strong sense of selves in relation to the rest of the world. As a USDE Green Ribbon School and Certified Sustainable MAEOE Green School, the Waldorf School of Baltimore is deeply committed to developing each child’s capacity to stand in healthy relation to the earth. The school is located on a beautiful northwest Baltimore campus, adjacent to Cylburn Arboretum, drawing families from in and around the greater Baltimore metropolitan area. The school is a full member of the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA), fully licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), and accredited by the Association of Independent Maryland Schools (AIMS).
PRESCHOOLS
Goldsmith Early Childhood Center ADDRESS: 8100 Stevenson Road, Pikesville, MD 21208 WEBSITE: chizukamuno. org/gecc PHONE NUMBER: 410-486-8642 TUITION & FEES: $5,100-$13,900 TOTAL ENROLLMENT: 150
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APPLICATION DEADLINE: No deadline; based on class availability. OPEN HOUSE DATE: Please email Michelle Gold, Director, at mgold@chizukamuno.org for more information. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Preschool; ages 2-5 YEAR FOUNDED: 1958 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Jewish OVERVIEW: For children 2 through 5 years of age, Goldsmith Early Childhood Center uses active learning to promote cognitive, social, emotional, physical, creative and Jewish development. Children are given the opportunity to observe, explore, create and experience through a childcentered curriculum and nurturing environment. Goldsmith Early Childhood Center’s classrooms balance academic structure with creative social interaction. Lic#124254
St. David’s Day School
ADDRESS: 4700 Roland Ave. Baltimore, MD 21210 WEBSITE: stdavidsdayschool.net PHONE NUMBER: 410-366-2133 OPEN HOUSE DATE: Reach out to St. David’s to schedule a personalized tour. SCHOOL TYPE: Co-ed GRADE LEVELS: Preschool and kindergarten; ages 2-6 YEAR FOUNDED: 1957 RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION: Episcopal OVERVIEW: St. David’s Day School, nestled in the historic Roland Park neighborhood of Baltimore, is a warm and welcoming early childhood community where each child is seen, known, and nurtured. The school’s program emphasizes the development of the whole child—socially, emotionally, intellectually, physically, and spiritually— through individualized attention and developmentally appropriate practices. Rooted in a strong sense of community, St. David’s fosters curiosity, confidence, and compassion, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
FOR MORE PRESCHOOLS, PLEASE SEE THE FOLLOWING LISTINGS: Archdiocese of Baltimore Catholic Schools Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School The Bryn Mawr School Calvert School Fells Point – The New Century School Friends School of Baltimore Garrison Forest School Gerstell Academy Gilman School Glenelg Country School Greenspring Montessori School
Harford Day School Key School McDonogh School The Park School of Baltimore Roland Park Country School Severn School St. James Academy St. John’s Lutheran School St. John’s Parish Day School St. Paul’s Lutheran School St. Paul’s Pre and Lower School Trinity School The Waldorf School of Baltimore