Shady Lane began in 1966 as an idea that was ahead of its time on many fronts.
From the outset, we have advocated for doing better by our children, teachers, parents and community.
We seek knowledge and challenge assumptions.Even more importantly, we continue to listen and learn.
We keep ourselves at the forefront, adopting new understanding of learning styles and multiple intelligences and new findings from early childhood brain development research.The constant has been a strong passion for and a deep commitment to children; all that they bring, and all that they can become.
In September, 1993, the school was recognized as one of 10 exemplary preschool programs in the country by Child Magazine.
Shady Lane's educational program is responsive to the individual strengths and developmental needs of each child.
The school offers children, age 2 to 6, a program designed to help them grow as individuals, and in relationship with others and the worlds of materials and ideas.
Shady Lane School is committed to fostering children's self confidence, independence, curiosity, and problems-solving skills.
Caring staff members help students search for and form their own questions, ideas, and meaningful solutions in an environment of mutual trust. Students enjoy the pleasure of learning through direct experience.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked PA School
- School Type: Early Childhood / Day Care
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-Prekindergarten
- Enrollment: 130 students
- Average class size: 14 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Shady Lane School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for:
Category
Attribute
Advanced Degrees
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-Prekindergarten
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
All children are welcome
Year Founded
1966
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
First Day of School
Fri. Aug 15, 2025
Student Body
Total Students
130 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
55%
State avg.: 27%
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
24 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
5:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
80%
Average Class Size
14 students
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Play clothes, safe shoes
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Tuition Notes
Varies depending on age and schedule selected (Half-Day, Full-Day, Extended-Day)
% on Financial Aid
25%
Admissions Director
Gina Capriotti
Admissions Associate
Janna Rasmussen
Application URL
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shady Lane School's ranking?
Shady Lane School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for: Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for Shady Lane School?
The application deadline for Shady Lane School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is Shady Lane School located?
Shady Lane School is located in the Point Breeze North neighborhood of Pittsburgh, PA.
Related Schools
Show me:
People that viewed Shady Lane School also viewed these schools: The Ellis School, St. Edmund's Academy, Trinity Christian School, Waldorf School Of Pittsburgh and Falk Laboratory School.
The nearest high school to Shady Lane School is Imani Christian Academy (1.2 miles away)
The nearest elementary school and preschool is Shady Side Academy Junior School (0.3 miles away)
Show me:
Show me:
School
Location
Miles
Grades
Students
Grades: PK-12 | 403 students 1.3 miles 6425 Fifth Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
(412) 661-5992
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
(412) 661-5992
1.3
PK-12
403
Grades: NS-8 1.8 miles 5705 Darlington Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
(412) 521-1907
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
(412) 521-1907
1.8
NS-8
n/a
Grades: K-12 | 450 students 2.5 miles 299 Ridge Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
(412) 242-8886
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
(412) 242-8886
2.5
K-12
450
Grades: PK-8 | 178 students 2.8 miles 201 S Winebiddle St
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
(412) 441-5792
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
(412) 441-5792
2.8
PK-8
178
Grades: K-8 | 430 students 3.4 miles 4060 Allequippa St
Pittsburgh, PA 15261
(412) 624-7286
Pittsburgh, PA 15261
(412) 624-7286
3.4
K-8
430
School Reviews
5 8/10/2013
All three of my daughters went to Shady Lane School. The education program was superb. Children are treated like individuals with potential that can be developed and explored rather than pieces of clay that need to be developed into the "right" shape. I could not have asked for a better education/experience for my kids. An added bonus is that I have become good friends with many of the other parents I met there.
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