The Knox School

541 Long Beach Road Saint James, NY 11780
Tel: (631) 686-1600 Ext. 414
www.knoxschool.org

Quick Facts (26-27)

  • Top Ranked NY School
  • Grades: 6-12
  • Enrollment: 121 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $27,000
  • Acceptance rate: 75%
  • Average class size: 12 students
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 31 / Dec. 15 / rolling
  • Source: ✓Verified school update
The Knox School Photo #1 - Founded in 1904, The Knox School is an independent boarding and day school serving Grades 612 and Post-Graduate on 35 acres of waterfront property along Long Island's North Shore, within easy reach of New York City.
The Knox School Photo #2 - A cherished tradition, Gym Night has been celebrated for generations - fostering camaraderie, connection and healthy competition.
The Knox School Photo #3 - More than a school, Knox is a close-knit community where students are known, encouraged to take on new challenges, and given the space to discover their strengths and build confidence. Be Known. Be Challenged. Belong.
The Knox School Photo #4 - With a 6:1 student-teacher ratio and small classes, Knox teachers know their students: their strengths, interests, and where they are ready to stretch. Personalized academic pathways and advanced coursework provide the individual attention and challenge students need to grow.
The Knox School Photo #5 - Hands-on projects, mentorship, and advanced study cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. The Knox Math & Science Academy prepares learners to thrive in STEM fields and take their passion for discovery to the highest levels in college and beyond.
The Knox School Photo #6 - Our state-of-the-art STEM lab is a gathering place for students to explore technology, computer science, and engineering.
The Knox School Photo #7 - Knox student artists explore diverse offerings in studio art, mixed media, photography, and ceramics with experienced faculty who are also practicing artists. Student artwork is proudly displayed in our on-campus art gallery, throughout the local community, and in select juried exhibitions.
The Knox School Photo #8 - Knox student-performers develop their talents in the classroom with specialized classes in acting, music, and dance - and then put those skills to work on stage with opportunities to perform in plays, musicals, concerts, and performing arts showcases throughout the year.
The Knox School Photo #9 - Whether discovering a new sport or competing at an advanced level, Knox student-athletes find opportunities to develop their skills, challenge themselves, and compete as part of a team.
The Knox School Photo #10 - A Knox tradition since 1914, our Equestrian Program welcomes riders from novice to advanced levels, with individualized instruction and opportunities for experienced riders to pursue competitive goals at the national level.
The Knox School Photo #11 - With direct access to the water from our Long Island campus, Knox crew offers students a distinctive opportunity to train and compete on the water, complemented by year-round conditioning in our indoor rowing facility.
The Knox School Photo #12 - From beginners to experienced competitors, Knox Golf Academy provides personalized coaching and access to top indoor and outdoor training facilities.
The Knox School Photo #13 - The Knox College Counseling Experience begins in Grade 9, giving students time to explore their interests, identify well-matched colleges and universities, and prepare thoughtfully for the application process. With highly personalized guidance throughout high school, students build a strong college profile and are prepared to stand out in an increasingly competitive admissions landscape.
The Knox School Photo #14 - With an average graduating class of 35 students, Knox graduates achieve a 100% college acceptance rate and collectively earn $3.5 - $4.5 million in merit scholarships each year, with acceptances to top colleges and universities across the country and around the world.
The Knox School Photo #15 - Make friendships that last a lifetime with students from local Long Island communities, the New York tri-state area, across the U.S. and around the world.
The Knox School Photo #16 - The Knox experience extends beyond the classroom, with students finding ways to get involved through athletics, arts, clubs, leadership, traditions, and campus events. In a small school community, there are many opportunities to participate, contribute, and try something new.
The Knox School Photo #17 - From the annual Lantern Parade to generations of cherished traditions, shared experiences bring students together and create a lasting sense of connection to Knox.
The Knox School Photo #18 - Houghton Hall is a hub of student activity - home to campus dining, a gaming parlour, recreation center, and art gallery.
The Knox School Photo #19 - Residential life at Knox is about more than where students live. It is where friendships grow, conversations continue, and campus begins to feel like home.
The Knox School Photo #20 - From game nights to everyday moments together, residential life gives students time to connect, unwind, and build a genuine sense of community.

About the School

  • Founded in 1904, The Knox School is an independent boarding and day school serving Grades 6-12 and Post-Graduate on a 35-acre waterfront campus on Long Island, New York.
  • With a 6:1 student-teacher ratio, Knox combines personalized academic pathways, AP and Dual Enrollment opportunities, and college counseling beginning in Grade 9 with the individual attention of a close-knit school community.
  • Students are known by their teachers, challenged to grow, and encouraged to explore their interests through academics, arts, athletics, and leadership.
  • Knox graduates achieve a 100% college acceptance rate and leave prepared for college and beyond.
  • Be Known.
  • Be Challenged.
  • Belong.

Quick Facts (26-27)

  • Top Ranked NY School
  • Grades: 6-12
  • Enrollment: 121 students
  • Yearly Tuition: $27,000
  • Acceptance rate: 75%
  • Average class size: 12 students
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 31 / Dec. 15 / rolling
  • Source: ✓Verified school update

School Rankings

The Knox School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in New York for:

Category
Attribute
School History

School Facts

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-12
Students By Grade
Offers Post-Graduate Year
Yes
Year Founded
1904
School Calendar
Last Day of School
Fri. Jun 11, 2027
Campus Size
35 acres
School Motto
Semper Ad Lucem

Student Body

Total Students
121 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
35%
State avg.: 39%

Academic Profile

Total Classroom Teachers
21 teachers
Student-Teacher Ratio
6:1
National avg.: 11:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
90%
Average Class Size
12 students
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
Number of AP Courses
35 courses
List of Courses Offered
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 Human GeographyAP Music Theory
AP Physics C: Electricity & MagnetismAP Physics C: Mechanics
AP Physics IAP Physics II
AP PsychologyAP Research
AP Seminar ELAAP Statistics
AP U.S. Government & PoliticsAP U.S. History
AP World HistoryART 141 Photography I
Art 143 2-Dimensional DesignART 145 Digital Photography I
Art 153 Introduction to SculptureART 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 PoetryHIS 171 American History I
HIS 202 Non-Western WorldMAT 1150A Elementary Statistics
MAT 207 Calculus & Analytic Geometry IIIMAT 2210 Calculus I
MAT 2220 Calculus IIMAT 2320 Linear Algebra
MAT 356 Linear AlgebraMUS 101 Music Theory
PHY 150 General Physics IPHY 160 General Physics I - Calculus Based
PHY 161 - General Physics I Calculus BasedPSY 100 Introduction to Psychology
SPC 102 Introduction to Human Communication

Tuition & Financial Aid

Admission Deadline
Jan. 31 / Dec. 15 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
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
$25,000
Acceptance Rate
75%
National avg.: 85%
College Acceptance Rate
100%
Admissions Director
Cindy Simkus
Application URL

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Sports

Total Sports Offered
9 sports
Colors
Red and White
School Mascot
Falcon

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
29 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Animal Rights & ActivismChinese Language Honor Society
DECAEnglish Honor Society
History Honor SocietyMath Honor Society
Model United Nations (UN)Multicultural Club
National Honor SocietyPodcast Club
Publications ClubScience Honor Society
Science Research ClubService Learning
Social Media ClubStem Club
Student Ambassador ProgramStudent Council
Yearbook


Arts and Music Programs:
Art Honor SocietyChoir
Fall PlayMusic Club
Spring MusicalThespian Honor Society
Tri-M Music Honor Society


Recreational Athletic Programs:
Strength and ConditioningWeightlifting Club
Yoga

School Notes

  • PERSONALIZED ATTENTION IN A CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITY: At Knox, students are known by their teachers-not just by name, but for their strengths, interests, goals, and where they are ready to grow. With a 6:1 student-teacher ratio, small classes, and personalized academic pathways, students receive the individual attention and challenge they need to make meaningful progress.
  • COLLEGE READINESS & OUTCOMES: Preparation for college begins well before senior year. Knox students learn to think critically, ask thoughtful questions, collaborate, conduct research, and communicate with confidence. AP, Honors, and Dual Enrollment courses provide opportunities for greater academic challenge and college credit, while college counseling beginning in Grade 9 helps students plan purposefully for what comes next. Knox graduates achieve a 100% college acceptance rate and collectively earn millions of dollars in merit scholarships each year.
  • LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: Some of the most important growth happens outside the classroom. Through athletics, the arts, clubs, service, and leadership opportunities, Knox students try new things, develop their talents, take on responsibility, and contribute to their community. With encouragement to participate rather than simply observe, students build confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of what they can accomplish.
  • A GLOBAL, INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY: On our Long Island waterfront campus, students from neighboring communities and the New York tri-state area learn alongside boarding students from across the United States and around the world. Living and learning together exposes students to different cultures, experiences, and perspectives while creating the close personal connections that define the Knox community.
  • OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPLORE AND EXCEL: At a small school, students don't have to choose just one way to participate. A student can pursue advanced scientific research, exhibit original artwork, compete on an athletic team, perform on stage, ride in the equestrian program, and take on a leadership role. Knox gives students room to explore new interests while providing experienced students with opportunities to deepen their skills and pursue ambitious goals.
  • 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 lower than the national average of 79%.
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: 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

  5.00 out of 5  (10 reviews)
5  
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.
- Posted by
5  
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.
- Posted by
5  
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.
- Posted by
5  
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.
- Posted by
5  
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.
- Posted by
5  
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
- Posted by
5  
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!
- Posted by
5  
Knox is an excellent school. Fantastic, caring teachers. Beautiful campus. Small class size. Students are in a healthy learning environment.
- Posted by
5  
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.
- Posted by
5  
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.
- Posted by

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