JOYFUL LEARNING! Cold Spring School is a progressive, independent school that welcomes children from diverse backgrounds in multi-grade classrooms from preschool to sixth grade.
Small by design, Cold Spring serves about 145 students.
Children`s voices are heard and are integral in the process of learning, and a balance of collaboration and independence is intentionally fostered.
Teachers create vibrant learning environments where discovery, engagement, and kindness are valued.
Quick Stats (2025)
- School Type: Alternative School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-6
- Enrollment: 155 students
- Yearly Tuition: $25,200
- Application Deadline: Feb. 1 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-6
Year Founded
1982
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
First Day of School
Mon. Sep 1, 2025
Student Body
Total Students
155 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
22%
State avg.: 31%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
18 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
9:1
National avg.: 13:1
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Feb. 1 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$25,200
Tuition Notes
Preschool Tuition $15,700
Tuition is inclusive of all books, supplies, and field trips.
% on Financial Aid
44%
Admissions Director
Renuka Gandhi
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
7 sports
Sports
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Cold Spring School cost?
Cold Spring School's tuition is approximately $25,200 for private students.
What schools are Cold Spring School often compared to?
Cold Spring School is often viewed alongside schools like Foote School by visitors of our site.
What sports does Cold Spring School offer?
Cold Spring School offers 7 interscholastic sports: Alpine Skiing, Basketball, Climbing, Fencing, Indoor Soccer, Kayaking and Snowboarding.
When is the application deadline for Cold Spring School?
The application deadline for Cold Spring School is Feb. 1 / rolling (applications are due on Feb. 1 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is Cold Spring School located?
Cold Spring School is located in the Fair Haven neighborhood of New Haven, CT. There are 1 other private schools located in Fair Haven.
School Reviews
5 12/21/2020
When we first visited Cold Spring School, we were amazed to see that children were empowered to ask questions, think creatively, and be active learners. Now that our daughter has attended Cold Spring for 5 years, we know firsthand that Cold Spring is also a kind, thoughtful, conscientious and generous community. It is a wonderful school.
5 7/24/2015
As a parent and an educator, I have seen and been involved with many schools. I can state with great sincerity that Cold Spring School is a truly special place. While schools often like to use the term "community" when describing themselves, Cold Spring actually *lives* community. All children are known and listened to. Classes are multi-grade with two teachers each so differentiation is just the norm for Cold Spring students. It is recognized that children develop academically and socially at different rates and while there are clear benchmarks for each grade level, how a child reaches those benchmarks is an individual journey for each. One of my favorite things about the school is its emphasis on emotional intelligence/ the social curriculum. Children are taught to problem solve, take responsibility for themselves and their own learning and help their classmates do the same. The result-- a school where kids are kind and supportive to/of one another and the adults model inclusion, empathy, curiosity, and support. Cold Spring School is really a one-of-a-kind learning environment and I am so thankful that my children can spend their days of childhood here.
5 10/6/2012
I have been trying to write a review for Cold Spring School for over a year. It is hard to put into words how wonderful this school is. I transferred my son here part way through his kindergarten year and he blossomed. From the master and associate teachers to the specialty areas to the staff you cannot find a more caring group of individuals who will help your child accomplish academic and social goals. I highly recommend visiting Cold Spring School so that you can experience it and see if it is right for your child.
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