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2022 Best Magnet High Schools in America

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  1. The Davidson Academy

    • Online School
    • RENO, NV
    • 5-12
    • 68 reviews
    #1 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Junior: Throughout my years as a student I have been to private, public, magnet, and online schools, but none of those experiences compare to the DA online campus. When I first joined Davidson I was worried. I had been to two other schools just the year before (one magnet and one public) and neither had worked. Not to mention my online school experience was very small as I had only taken a few asynchronous online classes before. But at Davidson, the live sessions were stimulating and engaging, the teachers were invested in my learning, the work was actually interesting, and my peers were amazing!...I’ve made strong friendships and connections throughout my two years. Davidson has helped be become a successful student too. I’d always had trouble taking notes, planning, and studying but DAO has let me create my own strategies for each! The school is meant for gifted kids and it shows in everything they do. Thanks to Davidson I finally feel at home at school...Read 68 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 178 Students
    • 4:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  2. MA Academy for Math & Science School

    • Public School
    • WORCESTER, MA
    • 11-12
    • 69 reviews
    #2 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: Mass Academy is an amazing school! The collaborative environment and assignments that are geared toward challenge and real-world applications make being a student here an inspiring and enjoyable experience. The academics are top-notch and challenging, and everyone will help each other. With the small size of ~ 50 students per grade, you get to know each of the faculty members and your classmates personally. The faculty offer a lot of support with independent projects and the college application process. Senior year at WPI prepares you well for college. Although you are always busy as a junior, most of the projects are truly enjoyable because you get to work in a group, including when designing an app and assistive technology device. There are also great classes in the humanities and language, so students gain skills in math and science as well as writing, English, history, and Spanish/French. I would strongly consider applying here if you are interested in collaboration and challenge!...Read 69 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 99 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  3. Maggie Walker Governor's School

    • Public School
    • RICHMOND, VA
    • 9-12
    • 132 reviews
    #3 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Junior: MLWGS is a wonderful place, and I could not have made a better decision than to come here. The teachers are so talented and engaging, and they make learning truly enjoyable. Contrary to popular belief, MLWGS isn't only good for its international studies or social studies classes—it has fantastic STEM and arts programs, as well, and the students have really diverse passions and strengths. What we DO have in common is that most of us are nerds... but our athletic programs are fantastic, and our football team is undefeated (lol)! If you're the type of student who likes challenging yourself with rigorous classes and expanding your worldview through exploring various extracurriculars (from Quiz Bowl to Bhangra), this is the school for you, and you will find students and faculty who share your interests and are willing to support you in all of your undertakings. And don't be scared off by rumors about the rigor—the workload is super manageable, and teachers are really understanding...Read 132 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 746 Students
    • 15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  4. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology

    • Fairfax County Public Schools, VA
    • 9-12
    • 550 reviews
    #4 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: I've had a lot of fun at TJ. I'm a senior and I've really enjoyed my 3.5 years at TJ so far! Fingers crossed for college decisions.I like the nerdy atmosphere. It's really nice to sit around before school starts talking about the latest research and our favorite books. I've also had really good luck with teachers. Every teacher in all four years has been really good. I especially like DNA and Biotech. Lots of fun toys and we get to design our experiments!Marching band is really fun and anyone who plays a band instrument should join. You make a lot of friends that way. Homecoming is always really fun. Homecoming will probably be delayed. I hope COVID vaccines will be out for the general public by the end of the year so we can have senior homecoming! It's very rigged so the seniors always win even if they don't show up. :-)...About workload, I've never been overwhelmed and I had time to goof off and relax even during junior year.Read 550 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,809 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  5. Payton College Preparatory High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 9-12
    • 391 reviews
    #5 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Junior: Although Walter Payton is a PWI, the school culture and atmosphere are very welcoming and feels like a community. There are people of many cultures and backgrounds which makes finding friends easier and natural in this school setting. Even academically the teachers are very welcoming and want you to succeed. There are afterschool and enrichment clubs and programs created by students and teachers that offer tutoring and community building. There are clubs that allow you to explore your hobbies and find new ones! Also, clubs that connect you to others of similar ethnic/ racial backgrounds as you like BSU (Black student union) and LAC (Latin American coalition). Walter Payton wants everyone to feel like they belong and makes sure to discuss injustices that happen in the world around us to promote allyship and support minority students. Overall Walter Payton offers great academic classes that prepare you well for college and makes sure you know you belong and are capable of great things...Read 391 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,220 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  6. Northside College Preparatory High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 9-12
    • 588 reviews
    #6 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: Northside is very inclusive and lively. Students are involved in all parts of the school such as the production of a musical, the display of sculptural work, and even the spread of awareness for minority groups. At Northside, the individual is strengthened in personal and academic identity. It’s rigorous tasks and unique class schedules prepare students for college academia. As a fellow Northsider, I can say that there was a difficult adjustment to Northside’s expectations, however, I have found an amazing and supportive community alongside it. If you are considering Northside, I hope you are warmed by it’s strengths in education and community!...Read 588 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,078 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  9. Bergen County Academies

    • Public School
    • HACKENSACK, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 522 reviews
    #7 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: Bergen County Academies is a school for intellectual and talented students with numerous opportunities and resources. The school has a wide variety of classes in all sorts of fields including different sciences, medicine, engineering, business, computer science, culinary, visual art, theatre as well as music. The school has highly trained and educated teachers as well as facilities more advanced than a normal high school. Students are given the opportunity to do high-level research starting in their freshman year and even have programs abroad where students can learn about other cultures, lifestyles and learn from mentors that are quite successful and well-known. Overall, Bergen County Academies is an excellent, rigorous school that provides its students with many opportunities and resources that give them an advantage moving forward in college...Read 522 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,086 Students
    • 11:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  10. School for the Talented & Gifted

    • Dallas Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 172 reviews
    #8 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Junior: When I first applied to the school, I was not too keen on attending. A lot of my friends from middle school were going to a different school that was also a lot closer to my home. I thought I was going to regret the decision of going here. However, I was totally wrong! The workload may not be easy but the teachers are very understanding and I am sure I learned more here than I would have been able to at any other high school. The (relatively) small class size that does not feel too small is perfect, especially within the positive environment that TAG is so proud of. I have grown unbelievably within the few years I have spent at this school and I am proud to say that this is the high school I attended...Read 172 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 409 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  11. Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy

    • Public School
    • AURORA, IL
    • 10-12
    • 336 reviews
    #9 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: I'm a senior here and the academics are top-noch, although it would be nice to see some more Engineering-focused options. However, for those looking to studying in medical, chemistry, mathematics, or physics-related industries, this is definitely a school you want on your list!...Read 336 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 631 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  12. Liberal Arts & Science Academy

    • Austin Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 483 reviews
    #10 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Alum: I graduated in 2020 at the LBJ campus. Great school, great staff, great people. I encourage every prospective freshman to apply, do not be intimidated by the academics! Yes, LASA will be more difficult than your typical high school as most courses taken will end up being AP or Pre-AP (not counting some liberal arts courses). The college readiness this school provides is very strong...Read 483 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,285 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  13. Whitney M. Young Magnet High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 7-12
    • 1,121 reviews
    #11 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: I love this school! I feel like there is a place for everyone, whether you are interested in sports, art, theater, or academic competitions. One of our flaws is that even though we have all of these programs, the basketball and football team are shown a lot of favoritism. This is something that has been improved in the time that I have attended Whitney Young, but it is still noticeable. The teachers and staff are mostly amazing! My teachers junior year especially were extremely supportive and easy to talk to. It made the stress of standardized testing and maintaining grades much easier to bear. If I was able to choose where my sister went to high school, I would bring her to Whitney Young without hesitation...Read 1,121 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 2,198 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  14. The Academy for Mathematics, Science & Engineering

    • Public School
    • ROCKAWAY, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 36 reviews
    #12 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Junior: It’s a great school for those wanting a STEM experience before reaching college, regardless of the fact that they may not want to pursue an engineering, or science field as their career. However, the classes are extremely rigorous, and if are not committed 101%, you should reconsider your choice to enroll. Regardless, the school is fruitful and wildly exciting because of all the like-minded students and faculty all ready to help!...Read 36 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 164 Students
    • 16:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  15. Union County Magnet High School

    • Public School
    • SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 137 reviews
    #13 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Junior: Union County Magnet High School is an excellent school! The student community feels like family and the teachers are available to their students often. It’s a very safe environment both physically and emotionally. There are no sports through Magnet, but students can participate in the programs of their “sending districts”, which is nice. It would be great if they fixed the sinks in the bathrooms, but other than that there isn’t much to complain about...Read 137 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 299 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  16. School of Science & Engineering

    • Dallas Independent School District, TX
    • 8-12
    • 206 reviews
    #14 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: Although I have mixed feelings about the school's overall curriculum, I have been grateful for many of the teachers who have taught here. This school heavily pushes STEM classes, mostly math, and leaves little room for electives until probably around junior or senior year. However, the teachers here (sometimes) recognize what we have to deal with and will encourage us to work our way through it. If stress is something you're trying to avoid, this is not the place for you! My hope is that the toughest times at SEM will be proof enough that we can handle the worst of college. I am also very grateful for all the help we got during the college admissions process - it's probably among the best in DISD. If I could change anything, it would be improving the quantity and quality of non-STEM classes students are allowed to take...Read 206 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 492 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  17. Poolesville High School

    • Montgomery County Public Schools, MD
    • 9-12
    • 317 reviews
    #15 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Junior: There is definitely a rigorous academic culture in the magnet program and I'm so thankful to have met some of the most genuine, kind teachers I've ever had. The global ecology program has been so much fun! In my experience it's a close-knit community where most people know each other. One thing I'd like to see changed, though, would be improved infrastructure. The school building itself seems pretty old and poorly made. There also seems to be an insect problem and asbestos in the ceilings, but everyone's pretty much used to that...Read 317 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,205 Students
    • 19:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  18. The Early College at Guilford

    • Guilford County Schools, NC
    • 9-12
    • 112 reviews
    #16 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: I can honestly say that the Early College at Guilford is one of the best schools in North Carolina. By grades alone, the school has some of the top grades in the state and produces amazing students. Peers and past graduates go on to make life changing discoveries at great schools, giving students excellent opportunities in life after high school. As far as the "generic high school experience goes," the school lacks due to the small number of students and lack of sports teams. However, we make up for our lack of athletics with an abundance of clubs and loads of school spirit. ECG has some of the best teachers who get to know all the students personally and the college professors recognize the students as ready for life in college, preparing students...Read 112 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 208 Students
    • 27:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  19. Julia R. Masterman Secondary School

    • Philadelphia City School District, PA
    • 5-12
    • 256 reviews
    #17 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Junior: I've attended Julia R. Masterman from the fifth grade to the present. I am consistently challenged academically which only helps me to grow. I've built great relationships with many of my peers as well as teachers. However, Masterman is not without its faults. There have been numerous occasions where students have brought racism and microaggressions to the attention of administration and nothing was done about it. Something positive that came from this is how collaborative the various affinity clubs have worked with one another to combat these issues. I've been an active member of the African American cultural club since my freshman year. Masterman has a variety clubs for students to join if they see fit. Overall, Masterman's rigor has immensely prepared me for college and the community of people I've met have made my experience even better...Read 256 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,207 Students
    • 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  22. Jones College Prep High School

    • Chicago Public Schools, IL
    • 9-12
    • 702 reviews
    #18 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: My experience at Jones was wonderful! Every teacher I had was passionate about their subject and advocated for their students. They did a great job at navigating what high school looks like during a pandemic. If I could go back in time and re-choose where to attend high school, I would still choose Jones in a heartbeat...Read 702 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,968 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  23. Academy for Information Technology

    • Public School
    • SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ
    • 9-12
    • 117 reviews
    #19 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Parent: As a County magnet school, AIT attracts students who are eager to learn about computer science and business. The campus structure and expectations make this high school more like a college setting. As a parent I am proud that my children enjoy learning, and happy that they have found a public high school that will make them rise to meet challenges. The academic program is not easy. There is a lot of work involved in meeting the challenge of this program, but it is worth the effort!...Read 117 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 284 Students
    • 18:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  24. California Academy of Mathematics & Science

    • Long Beach Unified School District, CA
    • 9-12
    • 458 reviews
    #20 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: I think CAMS provides a lot of opportunities for their students to grow in both academics and team-work skills. Be prepared to be really busy while going to this school, and if you're not, you're doing something wrong! It's essential to be involved in something here, whether it be in our robotics teams or other science programs. CAMS is also very specialized! Expect to take a lot of extra math and science classes, all of which will be more advanced compared to other curriculum in the district. It is also very important that you understand how you learn best, and you'll have to teach yourself a lot...Read 458 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 659 Students
    • 28:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  25. Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Humanities

    • Public School
    • MUNCIE, IN
    • 11-12
    • 363 reviews
    #21 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: Aside from Covid causing some unexpected twists and turns, I have loved my experience at Indiana Academy. It truly allowed me an opportunity to experience life away from home prior to leaving for college. The professors have been fantastic and I would recommend this school to anyone. It offers a far more challenging educational experience than I could have ever gotten at my traditional high school. Best decision I ever made!...Read 363 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 239 Students
    • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  26. Pine View School

    • Sarasota County Schools, FL
    • 2-12
    • 345 reviews
    #22 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Middle School Student: It's a great school if you are focused on academics. There is lot of work and studying effort to be done, however success never comes easy. I've personally have had all the nice teachers (incredibly lucky), never been bullied or seen someone be bullied (partly because of all the "aides" and the police officer present at campus), and have made many great friends. A few words of caution though: There's a bad teacher in every grade, and while I obviously won't name them my friends have had them for classes, and their experiences have ranged from "wait she actually did that" to outright hilarity. Middle school sports teams are decent, cafeteria lunch is mostly plastic except the nachos, and the school's being remodeled currently to be even better. If you join PV next year, you will be welcomed to a second giant building instead of scattered portables. Safety is very good, gym speakers hurt your ears, and people are very nice. I've had a great experience! Lots of clubs to join, too...Read 345 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 1,877 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  27. Tesla STEM High School

    • Lake Washington School District, WA
    • 9-12
    • 97 reviews
    #23 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Senior: I am currently a senior at Tesla STEM High School and will have spent all four years here. I love this school for several reasons. The small class size makes you feel at home and forms a strong communal bond. In addition, there are so many opportunities available at this school. Through STEM, I have competed in clubs at the national level, interned at Fortune 500 companies, and had the opportunity to publish my research. I will say though, this is a very competitive school, which can be detrimental to one's mental health. However, this competitive nature drives students to be better and to be smarter. The several AP and Honors classes available to our disposal are both interesting and engaging. In addition, the teachers are phenomenal! They are always available for additional support and help. Overall, this school gets a 5 star rating from me!...Read 97 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 603 Students
    • 21:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  28. Academic Magnet High School

    • Charleston County School District, SC
    • 9-12
    • 268 reviews
    #24 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Junior: The Academic Magnet High School is definitely something to consider applying to, or consider attending if you have already been accepted. It is generally a great experience, especially with the courses and overall academics. It is noticably smaller than other larger public schools, but the school suits most people who are dedacated in their studies or who have already been accepted. It is competative though, and there will be times where you'll compare yourself to others. For me, it was mostly during my freshman year. Besides that, there is an adequate variety of sport teams. The teams may get competative for you as well, and I would advise to participate in sports you have at least some sort of familiarity with already. If not, I would definitely research some of the basics of the certain sport you are interested in trying. Ultimately, this school can get competative, but I like to think that it's worth it in the end. Besides some social troubles, the academics are nearly flawless!...Read 268 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 687 Students
    • 17:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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  29. Carnegie Vanguard High School

    • Houston Independent School District, TX
    • 9-12
    • 321 reviews
    #25 Best Magnet High Schools in America

    Sophomore: Carnegie used to not have many activities, but as the school grows, we are getting more. We have an awesome cross country team that swept at districts last year for girls, tennis, basketball, and volleyball (UIL). We also have rugby, soccer, and badminton. We are getting a competitive dance team and rumor has it a dance team. We have many other students who play tennis or do track or lacrosse outside of school. Not to mention we have the best theater program in Texas and offer every club imaginable. And if there isn't a club, start one! It looks great on a resume. The only thing lacking are after school programs or special classes and opportunities to take credits during the summer or at a community college. There's less flexibility than there is at bigger schools with a wider range of classes and we're missing a football team too. But does football really outweigh the myriad of amazing students and faculty and an opportunity to ACTUALLY learn SOMETHING at school?...Read 321 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 854 Students
    • 24:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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    Covenant Life School

    • Private School
    • GAITHERSBURG, MD
    • PK, K-12
    • 50 reviews

    Parent: We transferred our children to CLS early in the Pandemic from MCPS to receive in-person schooling so we can continue to work. The amount of dedication and selflessness the staff and teachers displayed during this challenging and stressful time was a testament to their pride in their work and love of God. ...The quality in the schooling is good. Cursive, hand writing, language arts and grammar were deficient in the public schools and I was grateful that it is emphasized here. There was a lot of catching up for my kids! Living a life of good character is discussed regularly. ...My older child’s math did not grow much this year but it was because he was in accelerated math and this is not available at the school. I hope this can change. We are keeping both our children in this school this coming year.Read 50 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 374 Students
    • 12:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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    Oneness-Family School

    • Private School
    • CHEVY CHASE, MD
    • PK, K-12
    • 15 reviews

    Alum: As a child of international parents moved from school to school, I found Oneness-Family School to be a warm, caring community, where I could explore my passions and interests, engage with my peers on creative projects, learn at my own pace, and enjoy a range of activities, including art, music, yoga, camping, and especially musical theater!...At Oneness-Family School, social and emotional learning is taught alongside a challenging academic curriculum. I so much value the "soft skills" and values I learned there. Additionally, I felt heard, cared for and respected by all my teachers, and am still in touch with many today!...Read 15 Reviews

    • 127 Students
    • 6:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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    Holy Trinity School

    • Private School
    • WASHINGTON, DC
    • PK, K-8
    • 4 reviews

    Parent: Our son started at Holy Trinity last year during the Pandemic and the school just became our family. Through all sorts of ups and downs, they were incredibly supportive. They addressed the pandemic with thoughtfulness and resourcefulness. We feel fully engaged in the amazing community. The other parents have become great new friends. The administration and teachers are very welcoming and accommodating. The classwork has been so creative and fun for our now Kindergartener. He loves coming to school everyday and has formed great bonds with his classmates. There's great aftercare. We can't wait for our other children to join him...Read 4 Reviews

    • 332 Students
    • 8:1 Student-Teacher Ratio
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