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High Meadow is a progressive, independent school that fosters creative and intellectual discovery, civic engagement, and personal growth through a relevant, rigorous curriculum.
Our diverse and inclusive culture honors each child`s approach to constructing knowledge, and encourages risk-taking in academic and artistic pursuits.
We celebrate the joy of learning and the power of community by joining teachers, students and parents through volunteerism and school-wide cultural events.
The Financial Aid process begins in February for the following academic year. HMS reserves 10% of the operating budget to assist families in need. Eligibility is determined by submitting an online application FACTS Grant and Aid Assessment and relevant
Arts and Music Programs: After School Clubs, Arts classes and After-care programs are offered Monday through Friday. Summer Arts Camp runs for the first four weeks of summer., Before and After Care, Summer Camp
School Notes
High Meadow School was founded in 1984 on a shared appreciation
for John Dewey`s philosophy of progressive education by our
founder, Mimi Labourdette and seven families. We first opened on
Brook Farm at the foot of the Mohonk Mountain, where the natural
beauty inspired our name and our school`s curriculum. Eight years
later, we moved to our current campus in Stone Ridge, and have
since expanded from one historic building to three school
buildings, a performing arts and athletic center, an art barn, and
gazebo.
It`s the shared sweat equity of 300 parents, 35 teachers, and
150 students that allows our community to thrive. Visitors and new
families often comment upon the sense of belonging that permeates
our campus: it comes from the strong current of service that runs
through every aspect of the school. We`ve created a program that is
academically strong, child-centered, and committed to artistic
expression.
Volunteering is an essential value of our school's culture. It
provides a sense of ownership within every student, parent and
teacher, and makes it possible for us to operate as a parent
cooperative non-profit; with a lower price compared to other
schools. All parents commit 25 hours annually to our school, with
activities including beautifying the campus, classroom support, and
fundraising.
Grades: PK-3 | 34 students12.8 miles 7227 Route 209 Wawarsing, NY 12489 (845) 647-6516
12.8
PK-3
34
School Reviews
5.00 out of 5(6 reviews)
56/25/2020
Our daughter has attended High Meadow since 4th grade, and it has been a wonderful experience for us all. It is a nurturing, inclusive, and creative community where children are joyfully met where they are in their learning, get to explore nature and play outside in all types of weather, form close relationships with teachers and classmates, dive deep into the arts and other special areas of interest, and are continuously celebrated for their strengths. We feel lucky to have found this independent school after public school did not work out for our child. Now that she has recently graduated, she feels like will forever have this family at a special place that changed her life.
- Posted by Parent - Jennifer C.
510/7/2018
High Meadow has been a wonderful school for my children. It is everything I wish I had experienced going to school. The teachers are amazing and deeply committed to the students. The culture of the school is incredibly supportive and allows for the kids to follow their interests and express their true selves. Kids of all ages get to spend a great deal of time outside and in nature. Friendships across different age groups are common. The academic and arts electives offered are fantastic - everything from sign language to debate to advanced dance. The combination of very strong academics with a lot of opportunity for choice for kids to follow their passions is just what I want for my children. The school is very well run and there is a wonderful sense of community for both the families and the children. I really can't say enough great things about High Meadow.
- Posted by Parent - Stephanie E.
52/25/2017
Our children have attended High Meadow School since they were toddlers. Both- now in the 5th and 6th grades respectively, continue to blossom in its nurturing environment. The school has a warm and welcoming vibe that's palpable- you feel it immediately when you step onto the campus. The teachers are smart, creative and deeply care about each and every child and they are always available to and supportive of the children- whether with their lessons, resolving differences or building awareness of their responsibilities to the community at large. They have truly helped our children to not just learn but mature and shine.If you're looking for a great school for your child (toddler thru 8th) in the Hudson Valley, do your family a favor and check out High Meadow School. Visit the campus and get a tour. I'm sure you'll fall in love with this place as so many of us have.
- Posted by Parent - Tbar
55/21/2016
My son started at High Meadow School as a kindergartner after a very tough time in the public school pre-k (the tense structure, size and older kids made it intimidating for him). He found his "home" at High Meadow. From the moment we walked onto campus, if felt right. And it has been. As a parent, you want to know you made the best decision for you child. Whew....we did!! The teachers are fantastic, caring and smart. They create an open, creative atmosphere balanced by some rules as needed to it's not a 'free for all.' We loved High Meadow and look forward many more years at the beautiful campus in the Hudson Valley.
- Posted by Parent - vokar
55/17/2016
We fell in love with High Meadow the first moment we stepped on campus, and have felt more and more fortunate to have found it with every passing year. The teachers shine with a rare sense of vocation, the classrooms and campus are happy, kind, thoughtful, well ordered and alive with learning. Students in the upper school seem to navigate adolescence with unusual grace. Our kids relish their lessons and really retain what they learn. It's a lovely and talented parent body and a true community.
- Posted by Parent - parry
510/28/2014
I am a parent of a 6yr old/kindergartener and we have been at the school since my son was two (mommy and me program). I have been incredibly impressed with the priorities at High Meadow as well as the academics and the community at large. My son has flourished and we have created a network of like-minded friends that I now consider family. I look forward to the many years of his High Meadow education.
- Posted by Parent - jrapp
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Quick Stats (2024)
Grades: Prekindergarten-8
Enrollment: 154 students
Yearly Tuition: $13,000
Average class size: 15 students
Application Deadline: None / Rolling
Source: Verified school update
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Did You Know?
The average private school tuition in New York is $21,554 for elementary schools and $27,745 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
