Compare International Schools in Baltimore, United States

Instructs in Spanish, French, Mandarin, Arabic, Russian

Ages 5 - 14 years

Pupils 706

Type Co-educational

Baltimore International Academy is a charter school located at 4410 Frankford Avenue in Baltimore, Maryland. It serves students aged 5 to 14 in grades K through 8. Enrollment is determined through a charter lottery. The school teaches language and academic content through immersion in Spanish, French, Chinese, Arabic, or Russian, creating a shared goal of literacy across languages. In practice, students learn language skills and core subjects in the target language, building bilingual or multilingual proficiency while keeping up with standard curricula. The campus emphasizes consistent language use as a medium for mathematics, science, and social studies, with teachers coordinating instruction to support comprehension and progress in both language and content areas. This immersion approach helps students develop communication skills, cultural awareness, and cognitive flexibility, while meeting district requirements for K-8 education. The program is well-suited for families seeking a bilingual or multilingual pathway within a charter school setting.

Location

The school is located at 4410 Frankford Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21206. It serves students in grades K–8 as a charter school. The school teaches language skills through immersion in Spanish, French, Chinese, Arabic, or Russian.

Stages

K–8 (elementary and middle)

Type

Charter school; enrollment is through a charter lottery

School day structure

The middle school day begins at 7:30 AM and ends at 2:10 PM.

Application fee
- There is no application fee to enter Baltimore International Academy's public lottery; applications are submitted online for the lottery process (Baltimore City residents receive priority).

Tuition fees (K–8) — per year and per term
- Baltimore City residents (eligible K–8): USD 0 per year — public charter tuition is free for bona fide Baltimore City residents.
- Non‑city residents (K–8): approximately USD 10,000 per year. This non‑resident tuition is arranged and billed through the Baltimore City Public Schools Office of Enrollment; the school specifies the approximate annual amount and that BCPS handles the enrollment/tuition arrangements.
- Per term: the schedule for how non‑resident tuition is billed (annual, by semester/term, or by installment) is specified in the enrollment/financial arrangements issued by Baltimore City Public Schools (the family will receive a Letter of Financial Responsibility that sets the rate and payment terms). Tuition billing frequency and installment details are determined by the Office of Enrollment/BCPS policy rather than by the school itself.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Tuition rates for non‑residents are established annually by the School Board and must be paid in accordance with Baltimore City Public Schools' residency and tuition policy and administrative regulations. A Letter of Financial Responsibility documents the annual rate and payment terms for each non‑resident student. Consequences for unpaid tuition are handled under BCPS policy.

Boarding fees
- Boarding is not applicable. Baltimore International Academy is a K–8 day public charter school (standard opening/closing bell times are listed for the school day). There is no boarding program or boarding fees.

Other costs and typical additional fees
- Uniforms: Students are required to wear school uniforms. Uniform suppliers listed for the school include Flynn & O'Hara, Herman's Discount, and a French Toast schoolbox; families purchase uniforms from those suppliers and will incur the retail cost of required uniform pieces.
- Enrichment / extended‑day care: The school operates an Enrichment Program that offers morning and after‑school care (registration required). This program is an extended‑care service and typically carries registration and participation fees set by the program; billing and refund rules for enrichment are managed by the program director/Enrichment office. Contact information for the Enrichment Program is provided by the school.
- Field trips, classroom supplies, clubs/activities, and optional extracurricular or special program fees: the school runs clubs, activities and events; individual charges for optional activities, field trips, or specific program materials may apply and are handled at the school or program level (amounts are set per activity). Parents should expect standard out‑of‑pocket costs for uniforms, enrichment registration, and any optional paid activities.

Refund information
- For tuition: refunds and any tuition adjustments for non‑resident students are governed by Baltimore City Public Schools' residency and tuition policy and its administrative regulation; waiver requests and billing disputes follow the BCPS procedures. The Board and administrative regulation outline how tuition, waivers, and related notifications are handled.
- For enrichment/extended‑care: refund or cancellation terms for enrichment program fees are managed by the school's Enrichment Program office; families should contact the Enrichment Program director for program‑specific refund policies.

Fee payment options
- Non‑resident tuition billing and payment arrangements are processed through the Baltimore City Public Schools Office of Enrollment and follow BCPS financial procedures (the Letter of Financial Responsibility specifies how and when payments must be made). Specific accepted payment methods for BCPS‑handled tuition (for non‑residents) are determined by BCPS Finance/Enrollment at the time the tuition arrangement is issued.
- Uniforms and other retail purchases (uniform suppliers listed by the school) are purchased directly from the listed suppliers; those vendors provide their own standard retail payment options (online checkout and card payments are commonly available through those retailers' stores).
- Enrichment program and activity fees (if charged) are billed by the school's Enrichment/Activities offices and are paid according to the program's instructions; contact details are provided on the Enrichment page.

If you need the precise non‑resident tuition billing schedule, the school's enrollment notice identifies that the Office of Enrollment/BCPS arranges non‑resident tuition and will provide the Letter of Financial Responsibility containing rate, billing schedule, and payment terms.

Community

The school is a free, public charter school open to all Baltimore City residents. It offers language immersion and the International Baccalaureate (IB) programs for grades K-8, with immersion options in Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, Russian, and French. The school is committed to a culturally and linguistically diverse education that develops the knowledge, understanding, attitudes, and skills needed to participate in a changing world, and it uses PBIS to promote positive behavior. Students participate in events beyond the classroom, as shown in the BIA East events gallery.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The PTO's mission is to promote open communication and understanding between parents/guardians and teachers/staff at Baltimore International Academy East. It is an independent organization with no State or National affiliation and does not support any political platforms, which means that it can retain all funds it raises for the school. The biggest reason to get involved is for the benefit of your child, with studies suggesting that parental involvement can improve grades, test scores, high school and college outcomes, and behavior. PTO members are kept informed on a monthly basis of issues that concern the school and our children. The PTO has taken an active role in planning activities for students, including events such as a Black History movie, a Valentine's Day ice cream social, and recruiting volunteers for school activities and fundraising. To get involved, attend meetings, complete the member application, and pay dues (individual $6, family $10).

Language Provision

Languages taught through immersion are Spanish, French, Chinese, Arabic, and Russian; the program serves students in grades K–8.

Bilingual Teaching

The school uses bilingual education through language immersion in Spanish, French, Chinese, Arabic, and Russian for students in grades K–8.

Immersion Programs

Language immersion programs are available in Spanish, French, Chinese, Arabic, and Russian. Students learn language skills and academic content through immersion in these languages.

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Mercy High School

Ages 14 - 18 years

Fees $19,900

Pupils 445

Type Girls School

Mercy High School Baltimore is an all-girls Catholic, college preparatory high school and International Baccalaureate World School serving students aged 14 to 18. Located on a 26-acre Baltimore campus at 1300 East Northern Parkway, the school integrates the IB Middle Years Programme and the IB Diploma Programme with Advanced Placement courses and a Catholic curriculum. Mercy offers signature programs across STEM, arts, and law and social action, including the Catherine McAuley Honors Program, the Mentor Program, and the Sister Michelle Carroll Learning Services Program. Facilities support inquiry and creativity: a 2,500-square-foot library with thousands of volumes, the Dorothy Williams Bunting Science Center, a digital media lab and maker space, and a computer lab for student publications. On campus, performing arts space, two athletic fields, a gym, and the Weinberg Performing Arts Center foster arts and athletics. The Mercy tradition emphasizes hospitality, service, justice, and compassion in academics and student life.

Location

Baltimore, Maryland. Mercy High School sits on a 26-acre campus in Idlewood. The address is 1300 East Northern Parkway, Baltimore, MD 21239. It is 5 minutes from Belvedere Square, 9 minutes from Calvert Hall and the Roland Park Tri-Schools, and 10 minutes from I-695.

Stages

Grades 9–12.

Type

Catholic, all-girls, college preparatory high school; International Baccalaureate World School.

Additional learning support

Sister Michelle Carroll Learning Services Program.

Country affiliation

United States

Religious affiliation

Catholic

Application / Registration Fees
- An application/registration process is required through the school's online enrollment systems; families must submit a registration fee and an enrollment deposit as part of completing registration.

Tuition (2026/27 academic year) — tuition by year group
- Tuition per student (all grade levels served by the school): USD 19,900 per year.
- Technology, instructional, and activity fees: USD 600 per year.
- Combined total (tuition + technology/instructional/activity fees): USD 20,500 per year.
- Additional program fees (students enrolled in the Sister Michelle Carroll Learning Services Program): Level 1 fee USD 3,900; Level 2 fee USD 1,900.

Per-term / installment breakdown (examples based on common payment schedules available through the school's tuition-management partner)
- Annual (single payment): USD 19,900 once per year.
- Semi-annual (2 installments): USD 9,950 per installment (USD 19,900 ÷ 2).
- Quarterly (4 installments): USD 4,975 per installment (USD 19,900 ÷ 4).
- Monthly (example schedules frequently offered through FACTS):
- 10-month plan: USD 1,990 per month (USD 19,900 ÷ 10).
- 12-month plan: approximately USD 1,658.33 per month (USD 19,900 ÷ 12).
(Note: the school requires families to enroll in the school's tuition-management system, which supports selecting from standard plan frequencies such as annual, semi-annual, and monthly.)

Billing schedule and payment terms
- All tuition invoicing and payment enrollment are managed through the school's tuition-management process; families create an account in that system and submit the registration fee and deposit as part of registration.
- The school uses FACTS (FACTS Management / FACTS Tuition Management) for tuition and financial-aid processing; FACTS supports structured payment plans and automatic payment processing.
- Payment timing (due dates and the number of installments) is set within the tuition-management plan selected at enrollment; any enrollment or FACTS setup fees that apply are processed according to FACTS terms.

Boarding fees
- Boarding is not applicable. Mercy High School is a day, college-preparatory high school for young women in Baltimore (no boarding program is offered).

Other costs and typical additional fees
- Uniforms: The school requires a uniform (white button-down shirt, plaid kilt, red blazer for formal occasions, uniform sweaters and specified shoes). Uniforms are available from the school's approved vendor, FlynnO'Hara; families are responsible for purchasing uniform items.
- Device / laptop: Each student must have a Windows laptop; families order the required device through the school's provided ordering process. Textbooks and course materials are purchased through the school's textbook partner (eCampus). Families should budget separately for textbooks, classroom materials, and any program-specific materials.
- Program-specific fees: Additional fees apply for specific services and programs (for example, the Sister Michelle Carroll Learning Services Program fees noted above). Families should expect incidental costs for trips, arts/extracurricular activities, exam fees (AP/IB assessments where applicable), team fees, and other optional program expenses.

Refunds and withdrawal / cancellation terms
- Enrollment deposits, registration fees, and any FACTS enrollment fees are handled through the school's enrollment and FACTS payment process; FACTS notes that enrollment-related fees, where charged, are processed according to FACTS terms and may be nonrefundable. Refund and withdrawal terms are governed by the school's enrollment/tuition agreement and the payment-plan terms established in the tuition-management system.

Fee payment options
- The school requires families to enroll in its tuition-management system (FACTS) for invoicing and payment; FACTS supports payments by automatic bank draft (ACH) and by credit/debit card where the school enables card payments. Credit/debit card payments may incur a processing convenience fee as disclosed at the time of payment.
- Textbook and material purchases are handled through the school's eCampus partner; uniform purchases are handled through the approved vendor (FlynnO'Hara). The school's online ordering/payment processes use secure payment processors for purchases.

Contact for finance and billing
- Finance Office contact for billing and financial-aid questions: Phone (410) 433-8880, ext. 223; email financialaid@mercyhighschool.com.

(All figures shown above use USD and reflect the school's published 2026/27 tuition and fee line items.)

Uniform Requirement

Mercy High School Baltimore has a uniform consisting of a white button-down shirt, plaid kilt, and a red blazer for formal occasions; a variety of uniform sweaters may be worn in cold weather, and knee- or ankle-length socks in white or black, or opaque black tights or leggings; shoes are all-black buck oxford. Uniforms are available at FlynnO'Hara Uniforms in Parkville, and shoes may be purchased at Van Dyke and Bacon.

Food Options

There is a dining hall on campus named The Votta Family Dining Hall.

Governance and Ownership

Mercy High School Baltimore is an independent Catholic high school sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy and a member of the Mercy Education System of the Americas. It is governed by a Board of Trustees; the 2026-27 Board includes Mary Beth Lennon '85 as President.

Curriculum

The World's Premier Academic Curriculum: International Baccalaureate program with the Middle Years Programme and the Diploma Programme. It also offers Signature Programs across STEM, Arts, and Law and Social Action, including the Catherine McAuley Honors Program, the Mentor Program, and the Sister Michelle Carroll Learning Services Program.

Student Teacher Ratio

12:1

Higher Education Progression

100% college acceptance rate; Class of 2026 earned more than $37 million in merit scholarships and awards.

Gifted and Talented

Catherine McAuley Honors Program.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The Seminar Program is built into every Mercy Girl's schedule. Freshmen Year focuses on Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills: Thinking, Communication, Social, Self-Management, and Research, with Skills for success covering learning styles, time management, integrity, digital citizenship, exam preparation, and public speaking. The Adviser Program provides daily contact with a designated adviser; advisers work in small groups (about 15 students) and typically stay with the same group for four years to support academic progress and personal development. Mercy has two full-time counselors who meet with students individually, lead seminar classes, and collaborate with teachers to support Mercy Girls. The College Counseling team assists with college planning across all four years. The Student Services Team aims to nurture students and families through all four years, providing tools and resources that support lasting personal and academic growth.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The Sister Michelle Carroll Learning Services Program supports Mercy Girls with documented learning differences or mild to moderate language-based learning disabilities in a highly personalized setting. Learning specialists create an individual support plan based on the student's full educational-psychological evaluation, and students participate in Mercy's college prep curriculum with additional support. Mercy Girls in this program develop organization, note-taking, time management, self-advocacy, and study strategies to become confident learners. Level 1 provides intensive support (three class periods per week with a learning specialist; 2:1 and individualized instruction). Level 2 provides moderate support (small groups; two class periods per week in year 1 and 2; reduced in later years; years 3–4 include weekly meetings). Incoming families indicate interest and submit required materials; additional fees apply; progress is evaluated annually.

Mental Wellbeing

The Seminar Program includes health and wellness topics such as sleep, practicing gratitude, mindfulness, depression, and alcohol awareness. The two full-time counselors provide individualized counseling and lead seminars, addressing student mental wellbeing and collaborating with teachers to support each Mercy Girl. These offerings are part of the broader Student Services framework that supports personal growth across all four years.

History

Mercy High School Baltimore was founded in 1960 as an independent Catholic, college preparatory school sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy. It educates girls in grades 9 through 12 and carries forward the Mercy tradition rooted in Catherine McAuley; the House of Mercy opened in Dublin in 1827 and the Sisters arrived in the United States in 1841, later establishing Mount Saint Agnes High School and college in Baltimore in 1867. Mercy High School Baltimore is sponsored by the Mercy Education System of the Americas and embodies the Mercy charism of hospitality, service, justice, and compassion. The Mercy history and Catholic identity are central to the school's mission and programs.

Community

The Mercy High School community is supported by two main parent groups: the Mothers' Club and the Fathers' Club. The Mothers' Club is one half of the parent association; it funds projects that enhance the Mercy Girl experience and fosters fellowship among female family members, with traditions such as the Mother‑Daughter Luncheon, Christmas decorating, and Faculty Staff Appreciation Week. Meetings occur monthly from October through May in the Votta Family Dining Hall. The Fathers' Club volunteers at school events, funds major initiatives (HVAC upgrades, dining area renovations, athletic facilities, science and yearbook equipment), and hosts signature events like the John L. Stasiak Memorial Golf Outing and the Father Daughter Cornhole Tournament; monthly meetings are held and upcoming events are posted on their page. The Mercy community also maintains an active alumnae network and a broad array of student programs and traditions.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Mercy High School's parent association comprises the Mothers' Club and the Fathers' Club, each playing a distinct role in supporting Mercy Girls and staff. The Mothers' Club focuses on fundraising, special projects, and fellowship, with traditions like the Mother‑Daughter Luncheon and Christmas decorations, and meets monthly from October through May in the Votta Family Dining Hall. The Fathers' Club supports the school through volunteering at dances, back‑to‑school nights, and graduation, and by funding major initiatives (HVAC upgrades, dining area renovations, athletic facilities, science equipment); it holds monthly meetings and sponsors signature events such as the John L. Stasiak Memorial Golf Outing and the Father-Daughter Cornhole Tournament. Together, the clubs coordinate through volunteer networks and communications channels to support Mercy and engage families in school life.

Facilities Overview

Mercy High School Baltimore sits on a 26-acre, tree-filled campus in Northeast Baltimore. The campus includes a Chapel, a First Floor Commons for student study, a 2,500-square-foot Library with about 7,300 volumes and access to electronic databases and e-books, and the Dorothy Williams Bunting Science Center with biology, chemistry, and physics laboratories. The Jesse James Hinson, Jr. Digital Media Lab & MakerSpace houses a 3D printer, Glowforge laser printer, and Macs, while the Marion I. & Henry J. Knott Foundation Computer Lab houses Mercy's student publications. On-campus athletic facilities include two fields: a turf field in the Sisters of Mercy Athletic Complex with a video scoreboard, stadium lights, and spectator seating, and the Mary Anne Heckwolf Field, a natural grass softball field with a new scoreboard and multi-sport practice area. The Performing Arts Center includes the 37,000-square-foot Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Auditorium with 660 seats, a dance studio, piano lab, scene shop, and backstage dressing rooms to support arts programs.

Sports Facilities

On-campus athletic facilities include two fields: a turf field in the Sisters of Mercy Athletic Complex with a video scoreboard, stadium lights, and spectator seating; and the Mary Anne Heckwolf Field, a natural grass softball field with a new scoreboard and multi-sport practice area. The gymnasium has bleacher seating and concessions, and the Mary Ella Marion Court features a newly refinished floor and the Bryan F. Read Scoreboard. The Reitz Family Locker Rooms were funded by a leadership gift and the fitness room offers cardio and weightlifting equipment for student use.

Academic Facilities

The Dorothy Williams Bunting Science Center provides advanced biology, chemistry, and physics laboratories and dedicated science classrooms. The Jesse James Hinson, Jr. Digital Media Lab & MakerSpace includes a 3D printer, Glowforge laser printer, and Macs for engineering, design, and media projects. The Marion I. & Henry J. Knott Foundation Computer Lab houses Mercy's publications The Lance, The Shield, and The Garnet. Mercy Library is a 2,500-square-foot facility with about 7,300 volumes and access to electronic databases and e-books to support IB research. The Sister Marie Foley College Counseling Center offers a spacious meeting space for seminars and college planning, and the Visual Arts Studio was renovated in 2022.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Arts Programs include The Dance Program, Visual Arts Program, and Theatre Arts, supported by spaces such as the Performing Arts Center, a dance studio, piano lab, scene shop, and backstage dressing rooms. Athletics features IAAM athletic teams across 12 sports, with team schedules and related facilities on campus. Signature Programs include STEM-focused initiatives such as The Women in Medicine Program, The Sister Agnese Neumann Scholars Program, Project Lead the Way Biomedical Sciences Program, and The Women in Technology Program. The Mercy Girl Experience, Mercy Traditions, Student Services, College Counseling, and Clubs & Organizations provide opportunities for leadership, service, and community involvement. All Arts Day and various performances and events are hosted in spaces like the Weinberg Auditorium, supporting arts and extracurricular activities.

Academic & Intellectual

The school has more than 30 clubs and organizations on campus. The school has Ethics Team that competes in regional High School Ethics Bowl. The school has Model Diplomats that prepare Mercy Girls for Model UN and Model OAS conferences. The school has National Honor Society recognizing scholarship, character, service, and leadership.

Arts & Creative

The school has The Dance Program, Music, Theatre Arts, and Visual Arts. The school has Ensemble Players, Madrigals, and Mezzos that perform in concerts and events. The school has co-curricular Dance Troupe and Apprentice Dance Company.

Cultural & Language

The school has Asian Student Union and Hispanic Student Union. The school has Société Honoraire de Français and Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica. The school has American Sign Language Club. The school has Greek Club and K-Pop Club.

Social & Hobbies

The school has Board Game Club and Chess Club. The school has Craft Club and Mercy Magic Club. The school has Pep Squad that supports school spirit at athletic events.

Community & Service

The school has Helping Hands - Mercy Service Club. The school has Social Justice Society. The school has Peer Ministry and Peer Educators. The school has VALID.

Leadership & Professional

The school has Student Ambassadors who join the Admissions Team. The school has Student Council that organizes school-wide spirit and service activities. The school has Model Diplomats that provide leadership experiences through conferences. The school has National Honor Society recognizing leadership within the school and community.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The school has VALID as a safe-space promoting inclusion and diversity. The school has Pep Squad and Athletics programs that foster school spirit and physical activity. The school has dance and performance ensembles that contribute to well-being through teamwork and creativity.

Admissions

1. Schedule a Visiting Day and a 1:1 interview. Visiting Days in the fall are for Future Mercy Girls who will apply for the Class of 2031. Visiting Days are scheduled throughout the fall beginning on Tuesday, September 29 through Thursday, December 3. An online portal is used to create your visiting day, schedule events, and arrange a 1:1 interview with the admissions team.

2. Register for the High School Placement Test (HSPT). Pre-registration opens on September 15. If currently enrolled in a Catholic middle school, testing occurs at your current school. Accommodations require uploading relevant documentation into the registration portal by Friday, October 30 for approval. Transfers may use first-year high school transcripts in place of the HSPT.

3. Complete the application and submit by the deadline. Complete the application and submit on or before December 11, 2026. An application checklist is provided, including creating a portal for scheduling events, applying online, and communicating with the admissions team. If applying for the Class of 2031, the deadline is December 11, 2026.

Scholarships

The Sister Helen Doherty, RSM Music Scholarship is offered. Interested applicants should complete the form no later than the application deadline. The award honors a Mercy High School faculty member who taught music to Mercy Girls and celebrates the recipient's musical accomplishments and potential as a musician. Additional scholarships are listed under Scholarships & Endowment in the Giving section.

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St. Francis of Assisi School

Instructs in English, Spanish

Ages 2 - 14 years

Fees $8,850

St. Francis of Assisi School is a Catholic campus serving children from ages 2 through 14 on a northeast Baltimore site. The curriculum follows Archdiocese of Baltimore standards and is enhanced by the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme for grades 6–8. It is the Archdiocese's first school to offer IB MYP. Spanish is the second language of instruction for Pre‑K to 8, with IB MYP students receiving at least 50 hours of language study. The school emphasizes Catholic identity and cross‑curricular inquiry learning, supported by a 1:1 Chromebook program for grades K–8 and 3D printing to enrich instruction. Preschool, established in 1989 and relocated in 2008, operates within the campus, with a third floor added in 1997. Outdoor spaces include 375 acres of woodland in Herring Run Park and a 1.3‑mile fitness loop near Lake Montebello. After‑school STEM clubs, robotics, choir, and athletics broaden student life for curious, engaged learners.

Location

3617 Harford Road, Baltimore, MD 21218, United States. Located in Northeast Baltimore City, in the Lake Montebello/Mayfield area.

Stages

Pre-K2 through 8th grade. Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary, and Middle School.

Type

Co-ed Catholic school

Country affiliation

United States

Religious affiliation

Catholic

Tuition (annual and typical 10‑month payment)
- Kindergarten through 8th Grade (annual): USD 8,850 for the first child; USD 7,250 for the second child (USD 1,600 discount); USD 6,850 for the third and subsequent children (USD 2,000 discount). Typical monthly payment when spread over the school's July–April billing period (10 months): USD 885.00 (1st child), USD 725.00 (2nd child), USD 685.00 (3rd+ child).
- Preschool (five days per week, 8:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m.): USD 8,850 per child (Preschool is not included in the sibling discount). Typical monthly payment when spread over July–April (10 months): USD 885.00.

Application, enrollment and recurring fees
- Application Fee (new families only, non‑refundable; due at application): USD 60 per child.
- Enrollment Fee (re‑registration, non‑refundable; due at re‑registration): USD 325 per child.
- Technology Fee (non‑refundable): USD 150 per child.
- Materials & Books Fee (non‑refundable): USD 250 per child.
- Safety Fee (non‑refundable): USD 175 per child.
- Graduation Fee (8th grade only): USD 125.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Standard billing period for the 2026–2027 school year: payable July 2026 through April 2027. Typical monthly payment schedule runs July through April (10 monthly payments).
- Tuition is managed and collected through the FACTS tuition management system; the school does not process tuition payments on site. FACTS supports single (one‑time), monthly, and semi‑annual plan options. Incidental or occasional charges (field trips, drop‑in aftercare, supplies) are billed separately as incidental billing and must be paid within 30 days to avoid late fees. Families who pay the full year in a single payment by May 31 may be eligible for a 2% discount.
- Delinquency and collection terms: accounts 30 days past due may result in student suspension from attendance and school activities until brought current; accounts 60 days past due may result in required withdrawal for nonpayment. The school may withhold report cards, transcripts and records until accounts are paid in full.

Payment methods and processing fees
- Accepted methods via FACTS/e‑Cashier: automatic bank (EFT) deductions from U.S. checking or savings accounts, credit card, and check (check accepted for single‑payment option only). A credit card convenience fee applies (2.5%).

Boarding
- Boarding is not applicable; St. Francis of Assisi is a day school serving Pre‑K2 through Grade 8.

Before‑ and After‑School care (extended care) and related charges
- Program hours: Before Care generally runs from 7:00 a.m. to the start of the school day; After Care runs from dismissal until 6:00 p.m. Extended Care requires a completed registration form and a registration fee when applicable. Fees for drop‑in use and contracted schedules are billed through FACTS and are subject to late‑payment penalties and removal from the program for balances past due. Families are charged for contracted days per week and unused days do not carry forward. Late pickup fees apply (published in the extended care procedures). Example published rates for a prior year (illustrative of the program's fee structure) include drop‑in and tiered monthly rates by days per week; registration and billing rules remain in effect and extended‑care fees are billed through FACTS.

Fundraising, volunteer hours and related charges
- Required fundraising and volunteer obligations: each family is required to participate in specified school fundraisers (Turkey/Spaghetti Dinner and Race for Education) and to provide a minimum of 20 service hours per year. A placeholder charge is posted to the family's FACTS account at the start of the year to secure the volunteer requirement (USD 400, charged in July, equivalent to USD 20 per required hour). Completed volunteer hours are credited to the FACTS account; a final reconciliation is posted in May. Required minimum fundraising levels that are not met will be charged to the family's FACTS agreement (examples: Turkey/Spaghetti Dinner minimum USD 15 per student; Race for Education minimum USD 125 per family as listed in current parent/student materials).

Other costs and policies
- Uniforms / dress code: uniforms are required for K–8 students; preschool students do not wear uniforms. Uniform items and PE uniforms are sold through approved vendors (Flynn & O'Hara and Lands' End). Costs for uniform pieces vary by vendor and item and are purchased directly from those vendors. Dress code expectations, summer and PE uniform options, and rules for out‑of‑uniform days are published in school materials.
- Required fundraisers and minimum participation contributions (see above) are billed through FACTS if targets are not met. Families must meet financial obligations and support fundraising expectations as part of the enrollment contract.

Refunds and withdrawal penalties
- Tuition refunds are contingent on the school receiving written notice of withdrawal prior to the student's actual departure date; the refund amount is determined based on the actual departure date. Under the enrollment contract, written withdrawal notice received after April 15 triggers a penalty equal to 20% of the applicable net tuition plus forfeiture of 100% of applicable fees for the upcoming academic year. Attendance for any day of the academic year generally makes the parent/guardian liable for 100% of the applicable tuition and fees for that year. The school reserves the right to withhold records (except health records) until accounts are paid in full.

Notes on transactional handling
- Incidental charges (drop‑in aftercare, field trips, supplies, etc.) are billed as incidental items in FACTS and are due within 30 days. If a family uses state Child Care Scholarship vouchers, the school requires the family to continue payments at the full tuition rate through FACTS until the school receives the physical voucher.

If a specific fee line or exact vendor price is needed for an item not listed above (for example, uniform item pricing or vendor catalog prices), those amounts are set by the vendor and by the school's current fee schedules and are handled through the school's ordering process and FACTS billing.

Uniform Requirement

St. Francis of Assisi School has a dress code requiring full uniform for all students; Preschoolers do not wear uniforms. The standard uniform includes grade-specific pieces (e.g., knee-length jumper or khaki pants with white blouse for girls; navy pants with white shirt and belt for boys; ties required in some grades) with a summer option, and a PE uniform for PE days; uniforms are purchased from Flynn & O'Hara or Lands' End.

Food Options

The school offers a hot lunch program. Heaven Sent Catering provides hot lunch service Monday through Friday; meals are prepared off-site and delivered to students, and parents order online.

Governance and Ownership

St. Francis of Assisi School is a parish school of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Baltimore. It is a Catholic school serving Pre-K2 through 8th Grade and is the only International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program middle school in Baltimore.

Curriculum

The Archdiocese of Baltimore Curriculum is followed. The course of study meets and exceeds Maryland State Department of Education requirements. The Archdiocese reviews and updates the curriculum periodically. Preschool through 8th grade is offered, with the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program for grades 6-8. The curriculum emphasizes Catholic identity and cross-curricular inquiry learning.

Student Teacher Ratio

1:9

Higher Education Progression

Graduates go on to the finest high schools in the region. From there, they proceed to colleges.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports) is implemented to support all students and improve academic and social outcomes. The program is implemented in partnership with Shepherd Pratt Health System and Johns Hopkins University. PBIS is not a packaged curriculum but a framework for organizing evidence-based behavioral interventions to maximize outcomes for all students. The Archdiocesan Bullying Prevention, Intervention & Response Policy guides behavior management to maintain a safe, Christ-centered environment. The school has been recognized with a Bronze Level award by the Maryland State Department of Education for its positive school environment. A bullying reporting form is available to report incidents.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school provides support for students with learning differences through a learning specialist and an on-site reading/math specialist. Accommodation plans are developed when appropriate to support individual students, and outside professional assessment is required to receive accommodations. A Student Advocacy Team meets regularly to discuss SAPs and how to best meet each student's needs. The school maintains regular communication with parents to facilitate ongoing support. There is an on-site social worker in addition to a school counselor who provide emotional support and guidance and can liaise with external service providers. For additional questions, the Learning Specialist can be contacted.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Support for students not proficient in English follows an inclusive approach with a Learning Specialist, Title I services, and differentiated instruction with accommodations. Adjustments may include pocket translators or translation software, additional thinking time, simplified language, modeling, recasts, and increased student verbalization to practice language skills. Second Language Acquisition (Spanish) is part of the program, with the IB MYP requiring study of at least two languages to foster intercultural awareness. All students from Pre-K through 8th grade are offered Spanish as a second language, with Middle School students receiving at least 50 hours of Spanish instruction per year. The language profile indicates about 90% of the student body speaks English as a mother tongue, with a diverse immigrant population represented. Language instruction in English emphasizes across-subject communication and aligns with the Archdiocesan Course of Study.

Mental Wellbeing

An on-site social worker and a school counselor provide emotional support and guidance to students. They can serve as a liaison with external service providers when needed to support mental wellbeing. The school uses the PBIS framework to promote positive social behavior and a safe, respectful learning environment. The Archdiocesan policy supports a safe, caring atmosphere and appropriate procedures for addressing concerns. Together, these resources create a framework for students' social-emotional growth and well-being.

Safeguarding

The Archdiocesan Bullying Prevention, Intervention & Response Policy prohibits bullying, harassment, or intimidation on school property or at school-sponsored events and requires clear reporting procedures. Incidents reported under this policy are handled by school leadership in coordination with local authorities when necessary. The school provides a Bullying Reporting Form to facilitate timely reporting of concerns. The policy emphasizes prevention, intervention, and the protection of all students within a Christ-centered environment.

History

St. Francis of Assisi School's history begins with the founding of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in northeast Baltimore. The parish church, dedicated in 1927, was later converted into a school when a new church was built, and the school opened in 1955 with four classrooms. In 1957 the second floor was added, creating eight classrooms plus a library and an office; the first class graduated in 1961. A preschool, originally called Mayfield Christian Preschool, was established in September 1989 at St. Matthew United Church of Christ and relocated to the school in 2008. A third floor was added in 1997. The school began offering the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program in 2015, and the preschool achieved Maryland EXCELS Level 5 recognition in 2018.

Community

The school is neighborhood-centered in the Mayfield area of Baltimore. Students walk to school, and families socialize with neighbors, while local businesses host events and fundraisers that support the school. The school lists community partners including Mayfield Neighborhood Association, Hamilton-Lauraville Main Street, Morgan State University, Neighborhoods of Belair-Edison, Friends of Herring Run Park, Healthy Neighborhoods, Joseph & Harvey Meyerhoff Family Charitable Funds, Catapult Learning, and Women's Education Alliance. These partnerships help extend the school's impact beyond the campus.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Home and School Association (HASA) is the parent organization for St. Francis of Assisi School; all parents are members and the association meets three times a year. HASA collects annual dues billed through the FACTS system in July. The executive board includes a President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer, with elections held in spring. Parents are encouraged to engage with classroom events through Class Parents and HASA provides support to both the school and the parent community. Events organized by HASA include activities such as Bingo Night, and a HASA manual guides its activities.

Facilities Overview

St. Francis of Assisi School operates on a multi‑story campus rooted in the city of Baltimore. The original building opened in 1955 with four classrooms, an assembly hall, and an office. In 1957, the second floor was added, yielding eight classrooms, a library, and an additional office. A third floor was added in 1997 to expand the facility. The preschool program began in 1989 and was relocated to the first floor of the school in 2008. Maryland EXCELS Level 5 Top‑Rated Pre‑K Program is offered at the preschool.

Sports Facilities

Athletic facilities extend beyond the campus. The school uses 375 acres of woodland in the adjacent Herring Run Park and a 1.3 mile fitness loop around nearby Lake Montebello for gym classes and recreation. Soccer is offered through CYO for ages 3–14. Cross country is available for grades 4–8, with competitions in the Archdiocese hosted by Archbishop Curley High School. Track and field takes place in the spring, including participation in events such as the Youth Bowl at Archbishop Curley High School.

Academic Facilities

St. Francis of Assisi School offers the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (IB MYP) and is the Archdiocese of Baltimore's first school to offer IB MYP. Spanish is the second language of instruction; all students Pre‑K to 8th grade learn Spanish, with IB MYP students receiving at least 50 hours of instruction per year. Language instruction (English) follows the Archdiocesan Course of Study, and English learners receive inclusion and language‑support services as needed. Technology is integrated across the curriculum with a 1:1 Chromebook program for grades K–8, electronic displays in every classroom, and 3D printing to support instruction.

Extra Curricular Facilities

St. Francis of Assisi School provides a wide array of after‑school activities including sports, arts, academic clubs, and community service initiatives. Club offerings include Student Council (grades 6–8), Instrumental Music Club, STEM Club, Robotics Club, SFA Student Choir (grades 4–8), Arts & Crafts, Yoga, Altar Servers, Dance, Cross Country/Track & Field (grades 4–8), Chess Club, and National Junior Honor Society (grades 7–8). Students have access to after‑school STEM clubs and other activities coordinated with instructors listed for each program.

Academic & Intellectual

STEM Club and Robotics Club/Team provide STEM exploration. Chess Club develops strategic thinking; National Junior Honor Society (Grades 7-8, by vote) recognizes scholarly achievement.

Arts & Creative

Instrumental Music Club; SFA Student Choir (Grades 4-8); Arts & Crafts Club (Grades 2-5); Dance (K-8) offer performance and creative outlets.

Social & Hobbies

Yoga (Grades K-8) provides a wellness and mindfulness option. Altar Servers (Grades 4-8) involve service to the parish.

Community & Service

Community service initiatives are part of student life and are integrated with school programs.

Leadership & Professional

Student Council (Grades 6-8) is elected by peers. National Junior Honor Society (Grades 7-8, by vote) provides leadership and service opportunities.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Cross Country/Track & Field (Grades 4-8) promotes fitness and teamwork.

Admissions

Online application is required. Create an account in the Admissions portal, complete the application online, and pay the application fee. The school will contact you with a decision after the process is completed. Preschool and Kindergarten applicants are placed on a waiting list; the Director of Enrollment will inform you of your place on the waiting list. For 1st–8th grades, you must upload the child's school records and standardized testing scores; if the child has attended more than one school, provide a final report card for the previous school. After the required information is received, the Director of Enrollment schedules a shadow date. Current families are asked to recommit to the school in December. Once openings are determined by grade, the names on the waitlist are contacted in the order they were accepted to complete the registration process. Registration for new students begins during Open House in October. A baptismal certificate (unless the child was baptized at St. Francis of Assisi or is a non-Catholic) and a birth certificate must be presented at registration. If there is a waiting list, spaces become available and families ordinarily have five business days to accept the place and pay the non-refundable registration fee. Registration is an implied contract renewed each year; admission is for a probationary period of up to one year. Age requirements: PreK 2 (2 by September 1); PreK 3 (3 by September 1); PreK 4 (4 by September 1); Kindergarten (5 by September 1).

Scholarships

Financial aid is administered through FACTS Grant & Aid Analysis. The deadline for applying to FACTS is February 28; the grants portal opens in November. All families are required to create a FACTS account to manage tuition payments, and the grant and aid application is housed on the same platform. Preschool Aid is available via government vouchers; no additional financial aid is provided for Pre-K. Additional financial aid opportunities include The Theresa F. Truschel Charitable Foundation; The Children's Scholarship Fund Baltimore; The Knott Scholarship; GB Charities.

Waitlist

Preschool and Kindergarten applicants are placed on the waiting list and the Director of Enrollment will inform families of their place on the waitlist. For 1st–8th grades, current families recommit in December; once openings are determined, names on the waitlist are contacted in the order they were accepted to complete registration.

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The New Century School

Instructs in English, Spanish, Mandarin

Ages 2 - null years

Fees $11,830 - 17,200

Type Co-educational

The New Century School is an independent private school in Fell's Point, Baltimore, offering a Montessori-based, bespoke program for preschool through middle school. Preschool remains Montessori, while elementary and middle grades blend Montessori-inspired approaches with inquiry-based learning, small mixed-age classrooms, and project-based instruction. The curriculum centers on English, Spanish and Mandarin, with complete language immersion for preschoolers and partial immersion after age three, fostering lasting multilingual competence. The campus emphasizes hands-on exploration across STEM, the arts, and global studies, supported by an on-site greenhouse program whose produce feeds the school lunch. Facilities include a gymnasium and a dedicated performance space, plus an outdoor playground and an Imagination Playground. Lunch is served on site with vegetarian and nut-free options, reflecting locally sourced or organic choices where possible. After-school ECAs run 3:45–4:45 and cover language, arts, wellness, and design, with middle-school students invited to assist younger learners. Curiosity and collaboration define TNCS.

Location

The New Century School is located in Fell's Point, Baltimore, Maryland. The main address is 724 South Ann Street, Baltimore, MD 21231. The school occupies historic buildings in Fell's Point and serves families in Baltimore.

Stages

Students range from 2 years old through 8th grade. The school provides preschool, elementary, and middle school divisions.

Type

Independent private school.

School day structure

School day begins at 8:30 am for Kindergarten through 8th grade and 8:45 am for preschool, with dismissal at 3:30 pm (preschool has a half-day option). Before Care runs 7:30 am–8:30 am; After Care runs 3:30 pm–6:00 pm, with a car line for regular drop-off and pick-up.

Application fees

- Submit applications through the school's online admissions portal (Blackbaud / MySchoolApp). Citation: .
- Financial aid applications are processed through FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment and require a small application fee charged by FACTS. Citation: .

Tuition fees by program (2026–2027 academic year)

- Preschool — Full day (8:45 am–3:30 pm): USD 16,900 per year. Citation: .
- Preschool — Half day (8:45 am–12:30 pm): USD 11,830 per year. Citation: .
- Kindergarten (8:30 am–3:30 pm): USD 17,200 per year; associated published fee USD 400. Citation: .
- Grades 1–8 (8:30 am–3:30 pm): USD 17,900 per year; associated published fee USD 450. Citation: .

How tuition is billed and payment terms

- Tuition and most school charges are administered through the FACTS tuition-management system; families enroll in FACTS for invoicing and installment plans. Citation: .
- Payment-plan options are available through FACTS; families may choose an installment schedule through that system and will be billed through FACTS. Citation: .
- Incidentals (for example, school lunch, field trips, extracurricular activities, extended care) are billed separately and processed through FACTS or the school's designated registration platforms. Citation: .

Billing schedule details and timing (program-specific where published)

- Extended programs and ECAs (extra-curricular activities) are billed with due dates prior to each session; ECAs are billed with a due date three weeks before the start of each session. Citation: .
- Summer programs: payment-in-full or installment options are available when registering; monthly payment plans for summer programs have published cut-off dates and all payment plans must be completed by the school's stated deadlines for that program year. Citation: .

Boarding fees

- The New Century School is a day school serving preschool through grade 8 and does not offer boarding programs; therefore no boarding fees apply. Citation: .

Other costs and commonly billed items

- Published supplemental/fees column for K and Grades 1–8: K has a published fee of USD 400; Grades 1–8 have a published fee of USD 450 (these are additional to tuition). Citation: .
- Extended care and before/after-school options are billed separately; summer program add-on examples include before care (typically listed as USD 35–40 per week), after care (USD 60–70 per week), and lunch add-ons (example USD 40 per week) for summer sessions. Those add-on amounts are published for summer programs and similar extended-care options are billed separately during the school year. Citation: .
- Field trips, extracurricular activities, and school lunch are billed separately through FACTS or the school's designated registration platforms. Citation: .
- Sibling discount: a sibling discount is offered for families with more than one child enrolled; specific discount amounts are managed through admissions/FACTS. Citation: .

Refund and withdrawal terms (as published for specific programs)

- Summer programs: cancellations or withdrawals made before the school's published deadline for that summer session are subject to a published withdrawal fee (examples: cancellations/withdrawals before May 20 may be subject to up to 50% of tuition; no refunds are issued after the published deadline for that session). Citation: .
- ECAs and certain after-care services: published sliding-scale refund rules apply (example for the van pick-up after-care program: more than 4 weeks before a quarter start — full refund minus USD 100 cancellation fee; 2–4 weeks — 50% refund; less than 2 weeks — no refund). Citation: .
- There are no refunds for missed sessions due to student illness, absence, inclement weather, or unplanned school closures for listed programs. Citation: .

Fee payment options and how payments are accepted

- Primary payment and billing are handled through FACTS (online tuition and incidentals management). Citation: .
- For camps and other short-term programs, families may pay by credit card via the school's registration platforms; TNCS families are sometimes able to route payments through their FACTS accounts when registering for certain programs. Citation: .
- The school's billing office can be contacted at billing@thenewcenturyschool.com for account questions and FACTS support. Citation: .

Summary note (concise)

- Published annual tuition for 2026–2027: Preschool full day USD 16,900; Preschool half day USD 11,830; Kindergarten USD 17,200 (fee USD 400); Grades 1–8 USD 17,900 (fee USD 450). Payment is managed through FACTS; supplemental programs and incidentals (extended care, lunch, field trips, extracurriculars, summer add-ons) are billed separately with program-specific pricing and refund rules. Citation: .

Boarding Arrangements

The New Century School is a day school with before- and after-care programs. Before Care runs 7:30 am–8:30 am; After Care runs 3:45 pm–6:00 pm.

Food Options

All TNCS lunches are vegetarian and nut-free and are served daily. Menus reflect local produce and are adapted seasonally, with two portion sizes available: Regular and Large. Lunch pricing is 20 lunches per month at $148 (regular) or $170 (large); or $9 per day (regular) or $10 per day (large).

Governance and Ownership

Independent private school.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

TNCS emphasizes social-emotional learning as part of its invisible curriculum. The core values are Compassion, Courage, Respect, and Service. Biweekly student assemblies discuss how these values apply in daily life, and restorative circles are used in classrooms to support communication and repair relationships. A staff member leads the social-emotional learning program and coordinates with service-learning and student support across divisions. The school treats belonging, kindness, and responsible behavior as essential components of the whole-child approach.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

TNCS teaches three languages: English, Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese. From age 2, students are taught by native Spanish and Mandarin Chinese speakers. Students learn to speak, read, and write in both Spanish and Mandarin, and they interact in all three languages inside and outside the classroom. In language learning, the curriculum follows ACTFL standards and emphasizes the 5 Cs: Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities. Language curricula are designed to be immersive and active, with cultural exposure such as cooking, singing, dancing, and games to support real-world use of the languages.

Mental Wellbeing

TNCS supports mental wellbeing through its social-emotional learning program and a whole-child approach. A Wellness Team, including an epidemiologist and clinicians, provides health guidance and supports safety policies to help reduce anxiety and protect wellbeing. SEL initiatives foster belonging, empathy, and respectful interactions across divisions. Teachers and staff integrate social-emotional development with service-learning and community engagement to build resilience. When health concerns arise, TNCS communicates clearly with families to support students' wellbeing and continuity of learning.

Safeguarding

Students are signed in and out, and only people listed on the Emergency Form may pick up a child. The Emergency Form is updated annually to reflect current contact information. Health forms and medical authorizations are required for health conditions and medications. If a child becomes ill, the parent is notified and the child must be picked up; a fever-free period of 24 hours is required before returning to school, and a doctor's note is required after recovery. Discipline policies emphasize safety, with expectations to Be Safe, Be Responsible, and Be Respectful, and consequences can include counseling or removal from trips or school activities for serious or repeated incidents. Incidents are communicated to parents as part of maintaining a safe school environment.

History

Patterson Park Montessori was founded in 2007 in Baltimore's Patterson Park neighborhood. In 2010, it became The New Century School and expanded to include kindergarten and elementary students. We moved to Fell's Point to the former Mother Seton Academy and St. Stanislaus church buildings on South Ann Street. Preschool remains Montessori, while elementary and middle school are Montessori-inspired. The school emphasizes language acquisition, teaching Spanish and Mandarin Chinese, with complete immersion for preschoolers and partial immersion after age 3.

Community

TNCS emphasizes a community of students, families, and staff. We celebrate 15 years of learning, community, and shared experiences in 2026. It highlights world cultures and language acquisition, as well as art and music instruction, and observes cultural celebrations such as Lunar New Year and Black History Month. News and announcements feature ongoing community activities and a range of celebrations that invite family involvement.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

TNCS supports a parent organization historically known as the Parent Council, which was renamed Family Partnership and linked with the volunteering arm. Families contribute 10 hours of volunteer service per school year, across activities such as classroom support, event setup, presentations, country or profession profiles, and fundraising. Volunteer opportunities are posted regularly and include professional services, chaperoning trips, and other school-related roles. The TNCS community also hosts social events for families, including potlucks, school picnics, musical performances, back-to-school nights, information nights, and Town Hall meetings, with opportunities for family members to participate in classroom presentations, cultural sharing, or other activities.

Facilities Overview

TNCS is located in Fell's Point, Baltimore, on an urban campus two blocks from the harbor. The campus includes an outdoor playground used for before-care free play and during holiday camps. A multipurpose room supports arts and crafts during the day. TNCS runs an on-site greenhouse program; every student spends time in the greenhouse, which grows produce used in school lunches. The school offers on-site lunch with vegetarian and nut-free menus, locally sourced or organic when possible. Historically, the campus expanded to include a gymnasium and a dedicated performance space in 2012, with Gerstung gym equipment and the Imagination Playground added in 2013.

Sports Facilities

TNCS has a gymnasium and a dedicated performance space. The gymnasium uses Gerstung gym equipment and a performance space for events. There is an outdoor playground that supports free play and physical activity. Summer programs also use the campus facilities including the playground and gym equipment.

Academic Facilities

TNCS emphasizes inquiry-based learning with an integrated arts emphasis. Students learn English, Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese and engage in all three languages inside and outside the classroom. Classrooms are mixed-aged and designed for individualized instruction with project-based learning. STEM, global studies, and the arts are central components of the curriculum. Preschool language immersion and Montessori elements complement the program.

Extra Curricular Facilities

TNCS offers a range of extracurricular activities after the school day, with ECAs running from 3:45 pm to 4:45 pm on school days and rotating quarterly. Examples include Spanish Immersion: Song & Dance, Warriors of Wellness, Brick Masters, Paint-tastic, Tippi Toes Ballet, Knight School, Eco Crafters, and Art-tastic. Middle school students can volunteer in ECAs to support younger learners. Registration is managed on the TNCS website with quarterly schedules and checkout.

Academic & Intellectual

The New Century School offers ECAs such as Brick Masters (engineering with foam blocks and LEGO) for ages 4 through 3rd grade, Time Travelers (weekly journeys to the past through stories and hands‑on activities), and Design Lab (design challenges across architecture, fashion, and problem solving for K–5th grade). ECAs run after school from 3:45 pm to 4:45 pm and rotate quarterly.

Arts & Creative

Paint-tastic! (K–5th Grade) and Art-tastic! (Age 4–2nd Grade) provide hands‑on visual art experiences, while Art of Puppetry and Studio Art: Miniature Worlds expand creativity through making and storytelling. Spanish Immersion: Art & Creativity and Chinese Art & Culture offer language‑inspired artistic exploration; Nature Studio and Yarn-tastic! further blend art with the outdoors and craft making.

Cultural & Language

Spanish Immersion ECAs include Song & Dance, Sports, and Art & Creativity, plus Travels Through Latin America; Spanish Language Immersion: Viajes is also offered in summer camp. Chinese Art & Culture explores Chinese art and cultural traditions. These language‑rich ECAs run alongside other cultural activities to build multilingual competence.

Social & Hobbies

Time Travelers offers imaginative journeys into different historical periods through stories and crafts, fostering curiosity and collaboration. Tabletop Titans invites students to engage in collaborative, creative tabletop games that emphasize teamwork and storytelling.

Community & Service

Middle school students (6th–8th grade) are invited to volunteer in ECAs to support younger learners and earn service hours.

Leadership & Professional

The Counselor in Training (CIT) Program is available for rising 7th–10th graders to gain hands‑on experience, develop professional skills, and earn service hours through camp roles and leadership activities.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Warriors of Wellness emphasizes movement, wellness education, basic self‑defense, yoga, and mindfulness; Yinjas combines mindfulness, yoga, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to build self‑awareness and resilience. Music Makers offers hands‑on music making and teamwork, and Parkour Camp focuses on movement, balance, and confidence through guided activity.

Language Provision

Spanish and Mandarin Chinese are the modern world languages taught; students learn to speak, read, and write in both languages; instruction is guided by the 5 Cs of language learning—Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities.

Bilingual Teaching

Spanish and Mandarin Chinese are taught through bilingual instruction by native speakers from age 2 onward.

Immersion Programs

Dual-language instruction with curricula designed for absorption and active use of the target languages; content areas such as math and geography are taught in Spanish and Mandarin; instruction follows ACTFL standards.

Admissions

1. Discover TNCS (In Person or Virtual): In a small-group session, learn about TNCS's academics, day-to-day life, and community. The session includes a guided tour and a Q&A. Register for a Session to participate. 2. 1:1 Personal Visit (Weekdays by Appointment): Obtain specific answers about your child's grade level, curriculum, extended care, and any other questions in a private meeting. Book Your Visit. 3. Apply Online: Less Than One Hour • No Fee. Ready to take the next step? Complete the online application at your convenience. We look forward to learning about your child. Start Application. 4. Admissions Inquiry: Not sure which option is best for your family? Submit a general Admissions Inquiry. 5. Admissions Promise: Inclusion and diversity are cornerstones of TNCS. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of admissions policy, educational policies, or any other program administered by the school. 6. Applying to TNCS: Find specific deadlines and other application details on the How to Apply page. Applications may be accepted midyear under our rolling admissions policy, and late applications will also be considered. 7. Quick Facts: TNCS is an independent private school with middle school (6th-8th), elementary (kindergarten-5th), and preschool (2 to 5-year-olds). The language program teaches Spanish and Mandarin Chinese. The preschool curriculum follows Montessori. Kindergarten, elementary, and middle school programs follow inquiry-based curricula.

Scholarships

Financial Aid and Scholarships: TNCS provides financial assistance to qualified Elementary and Middle School families; TNCS offers merit-based scholarships to Middle School students; TNCS also participates in the MSDE Child Care Scholarship Program to help eligible families pay for childcare and education. The school does not discriminate in admissions or programs. Financial Aid Overview: Families can apply for financial aid for Elementary and Middle School programs. We partner with FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment to analyze need; after submission, the Financial Aid Committee determines the level of assistance. A completed application must be submitted prior to consideration. Applying for Financial Aid: Step 1 - Submit your Application for Enrollment; Step 2 - Submit an Application to FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment; Step 3 - Financial Aid Decision. What We Consider: The factors include number of children in the family; number of children attending tuition-charging schools; discretionary expenditures; annual retirement savings; and other relevant financial details. Middle School Scholarship Overview: TNCS offers a $500 renewable merit-based scholarship to Middle School students (6th-8th grade). Deadline to apply for the upcoming academic year is January 15. Step 1 - Apply to TNCS; Step 2 - Letter of Introduction; Step 3 - Letters of Recommendation; Step 4 - Interview. Scholarship awards are announced with the admissions decision. What We Consider for the Merit Scholarship: The student must be in 6th-8th grade, have a record of high academic achievement, and demonstrate a commitment to serve the community.

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