BE KNOWN. BE CHALLENGED. BELONG. Founded in 1904, The Knox School is a boarding and day school on Long Island, NY, serving Grades 6-12 and Post-Graduate.
Knox offers a compassionate, student-centered education with personalized learning pathways and early college counseling, leading to 100% college acceptance.
In our close-knit community where students feel seen and valued, learners grow through transformative arts, athletics, and leadership opportunities - building confidence and earning admission to top universities.
Quick Facts (2026)
- Top-Ranked NY School
- Grades: 6-12
- Enrollment: 132 students
- Yearly Tuition: $27,000
- Acceptance rate: 75%
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: Jan. 31 / Dec. 15 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
The Knox School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New York for:
Category
Attribute
SAT Score
AP Courses
Extracurriculars
School History
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-12
Offers Post-Graduate Year
Yes
Year Founded
1904
School Calendar
Last Day of School
Fri. Jun 5, 2026
Campus Size
35 acres
Student Body
Total Students
132 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
24%
State avg.: 40%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
21 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
90%
Average Class Size
12 students
Number of AP/Advanced Courses
35 courses
List of Courses Offered
AP/Advanced Courses
AP Art & DesignAP Biology
AP Calculus ABAP Calculus BC
AP ChemistryAP Computer Science A
AP Computer Science PrinciplesAP English Language
AP English LiteratureAP Environmental Science
AP Music TheoryAP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism
AP Physics C: MechanicsAP Physics I
AP Physics IIAP Psychology
AP StatisticsAP U.S. Government & Politics
AP U.S. HistoryAP World History
ART 122 Electronic IllustrationART 141 Photography I
ART 145 Digital Photography IART 1570 Digital Photography
CJ 277 Criminal Law & ProcedureCRJ 1020 American Jurisprudence
EGL 192 Introduction to FictionENG 101 Standard Freshman Composition
ENG 102 Literature and CompositionENG 103 Writing for Effective Communication
ENG 114 Introduction to PoetryMAT 1150A Elementary Statistics
MAT 2210 Calculus IMAT 2220 Calculus II
MAT 2320 Linear Algebra
Average SAT score
1375
(Out of 1600)
Average ACT score
26
(Out of 36)
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
blazer, dress shirt, dress slacks or skirt
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Jan. 31 / Dec. 15 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$27,000
Tuition Notes
Day Students $27,000. 5-Day Boarding Students: $50,000. 7-Day Boarding Students: $60,000.
% on Financial Aid
35%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$23,000
Acceptance Rate
75%
National avg.: 82%
College Acceptance Rate
100%
Admissions Director
Cindy Simkus
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
9 sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
39 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Arts and Music Programs:
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Amnesty InternationalAnimal Rights & Activism
Chess & MahjongChinese Language Honor Society
DECAEnglish Honor Society
Green Book ClubHistory Club
History Honor SocietyMath Honor Society
Mental Health ClubMock Trial
Model United Nations (UN)National Honor Society
Nutrition ClubPodcast Club
SADDSave Endangered Species Club
Science ClubScience Honor Society
Service LearningSpirit Club
Student Ambassador ProgramStudent Council
Student Publications: Roseleaves & ScribblersYearbook
Arts and Music Programs:
Art Honor SocietyChoir
DanceFall Play
Music ClubSongwriting Club
Spring MusicalThespian Honor Society
Tri-M Music Honor Society
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Pickle BallRunning
Strength and ConditioningWeightlifting Club
School Notes
- School Motto: Semper Ad Lucem
- School Mascot: Falcon
- PERSONALIZED ATTENTION IN A CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITY: At Knox, every student is seen, heard, and valued. In our intentionally small, caring community, every student is known by name, and supported by personalized learning pathways to top university placement.
- COLLEGE READINESS & OUTCOMES: Knox educators go beyond textbooks, teaching critical thinking, inquiry, collaboration, and research and presentation skills. Students are further challenged through advanced coursework, AP classes, and dual enrollment, gaining preparation for higher education and the opportunity to earn college credit. 100% of graduating seniors are admitted to four-year universities, including many top-tier schools, and receive millions in scholarships each year.
- LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: Life at Knox goes beyond the classroom-students engage in competitive athletics, creative arts, transformative leadership opportunities, and robust extracurricular programs that spark curiosity, ignite passions, and unlock potential. Through these experiences, they discover strengths, grow in confidence, and become the individuals they were meant to be.
- A GLOBAL, INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY: Located on Long Island's North Shore, Knox brings together students from neighboring communities, the New York tri-state area, across the U.S., and up to 20 countries worldwide. Learning and living with peers from many cultures helps students build empathy and broaden their worldview. Here, students form friendships that last a lifetime and gain the perspective needed to thrive in a global society.
- OPPORTUNITIES TO ENGAGE AND EXCEL: Knox is a school where students explore passions they never expected to find and achieve things they never thought possible. From cutting-edge scientific research and national juried art exhibitions to league championships and all-state music honors, a student can compete in the riding ring, shine on stage, and lead in student government. With the freedom to take risks in a supportive, nurturing environment, Knox students discover strengths that open doors-and the opportunities are simply unlimited.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Millie Chan - Product Designer, Business Owner and CEO
- Dr. Matthew Rosen - Physicist
- Miles Chamley-Watson - U.S. Olympian in Fencing (2012, 2016); 3-time First Team All-American
- Dr. Benjamin Cilento - Plastic & Reconstructed Surgeon
- Michael Schenker - Television Producer
- Phebe T. Phillips Byrne - Equestrian; winner National Horse of the Year 1990
- Tim Eriksen - Ethnomusicologist, Singer, Songwriter
- Lisa Gay Hamilton - Broadway, Film & TV Actor
- Chris Strompolos - Film Producer
- Jim Liu - US Junior Golf Champion 2010
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does The Knox School cost?
The Knox School's tuition is approximately $27,000 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of The Knox School?
The acceptance rate of The Knox School is 75%, which is equal to the national average of 75%.
Who are famous alumni from The Knox School?
The Knox School famous alumni include: Millie Chan, Dr. Matthew Rosen, Miles Chamley-Watson, Dr. Benjamin Cilento, Michael Schenker, Phebe T. Phillips Byrne, Tim Eriksen, Lisa Gay Hamilton, Chris Strompolos and Jim Liu.
What sports does The Knox School offer?
The Knox School offers 9 interscholastic sports: Badminton, Basketball, Crew, Cross Country, Equestrian, Golf, Soccer, Tennis and Volleyball.
What is The Knox School's ranking?
The Knox School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New York for: Highest average SAT score, Most AP courses offered, Most extracurriculars offered and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for The Knox School?
The application deadline for The Knox School is Jan. 31 / Dec. 15 / rolling (applications are due on Jan. 31 / Dec. 15 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
School Reviews
5 10/31/2025
Knox is a small, private boarding school that has all the offerings one would expect at a larger school. Knox offers AP and dual enrollment courses, athletics, performance arts, equestrian programs, clubs, weekly activities and weekend trips. Campus is beautiful, and students can easily take the train into Manhattan or explore the many Long Island beaches nearby. As a parent who has served on several school boards, I am highly impressed with the administration. Head of school Virginia Ricarrdi leads Knox with integrity and transparency, while caring about each student as an individual. I would also like to recognize Donna Pergola Dean of Academics for supporting the students while maintaining rigorous academic standards and Jarred Grasso for coaching the PG basketball team with the intensity and professionalism of a Division 1 program. During our travels we have met several international parents who have shared that even after graduation, their children have looked back upon Knox with fond memories. Knox is more than a school- it is a place to excel academically and athletically while allowing for lifelong friendships and community. We are so grateful to be part of this wonderful community.
5 2/9/2024
The Knox School has provided my children with opportunities for leadership, to develop their talents and shine on stage, and to have a voice in the classroom in engaging in discussion with their teachers and peers. This caring community of faculty and administrators offers a student-driven experience with personalized course scheduling, a curriculum for college counseling, and the support and encouragement for students to develop new clubs and student organizations. Teen years are difficult and preparing for college is stressful. My children are not just surviving, they are thriving thanks to the support and opportunities that Knox has provided.
5 10/20/2021
I highly recommend Knox to any parents looking for a school that not only has a stellar academic program but an amazing campus life. Knox really focuses on making your child the best version of themselves. I graduated from Knox in 2003 and my niece and nephew currently attend the school. This place is not just a school, but it is more like a family. I have seen the amazing difference Knox has made for the niece and nephew who are becoming mature, smart, and kind people. The faculty goes above and beyond for each student. Please come to campus and experience what Knox has to offer if you are looking for a private school for your child.
5 10/20/2021
After issues with our district, we needed a place for our daughter and thankfully we found the Knox School. From our first visit, we knew this would be the perfect place. Warm and caring administration, knowledgeable and dedicated teachers combined with a beautiful campus and a nurturing environment make The Knox School a fantastic choice. Our daughter is already a new person after only 2 months - we cant wait to see what the next 2 1/2 years will bring.
5 10/6/2021
The Knox School has been a perfect match for our son. The small size classes and personal attention the students receive from the teachers are exceptional. The coaches do an awesome job encouraging the kids and helping them to become the best athlete that they can be. All the administrators are present and know the kids by name. We can not say enough good things about this school.
5 1/5/2019
We could not be happier with our decision to pursue the Knox School for our son. Academically and the access to talented equestrian staff made Knox the ideal choice for our family. Wonderful school
5 5/16/2017
Knox is an excellent nurturing school that provides a positive and caring environment. There is a great sense of community. The classes are small and every student gets the attention they deserve. Teachers and administrators are very involved and supportive. The equestrian program is excellent and unique. The student body is very diverse with students from many different countries, providing a great experience for all students. This school has been life changing for my daughter!
5 5/15/2017
Knox is an excellent school. Fantastic, caring teachers. Beautiful campus. Small class size. Students are in a healthy learning environment.
5 7/24/2015
The school has established a climate that promotes excellence and leadership among students in a caring and supportive environment. My daughter participated in crew which was a great experience that opened her up to challenges as well as provided unique opportunities.
5 7/27/2013
Knox is an EXCELLENT School providing superior academic preparation for college and beyond. LOVE the International component and the mix of Day and Boarding. I* graduated from here in 1973 as have 3 of my adult children (''97, ''98 and ''00). I currently have a child in 10th grade (''16) here.
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