Scarsdale

The Scarsdale Union Free School District is located in Scarsdale, NY, a northern suburb of New York City. The District enrollment is approximately 4,800 students in grades K-12. The District consists of a high school, a middle school, and five elementary schools.

Student performance is unusually strong. On standardized tests and state examinations at every level, Scarsdale student achievement is typically among the very strongest in region, state and nation. Such measures reflect the quality of teaching and learning in Scarsdale. Even more important to us is the quality of research, writing, and other work students produce each day, as well as the enthusiasm manifest in exhibitions of mastery ranging from a fifth grade production of "Twelfth Night" to High School Senior Options projects.

Each of the five elementary schools provides an education whose aim is to promote achievement and intellectual challenge, but within a clearly child-centered environment. Each school maintains a special relationship with its neighborhood as well as a unique character and traditions. Students are asked to participate actively as writers, historians, problem-solvers, scientists. There is a strong and lively arts program. Both the schools and parent groups sponsor wide-ranging opportunities for personal exploration and enrichment, such as an annual Young Writer's Conference and an elementary jazz group.

The Middle School of approximately 1,100 students has long recognized the special character of pre-adolescent youngsters by providing a strong preparation in smaller communities or "houses" that promote close relationships and learning. So that teachers will know their students as people as well as intellects, they work with overall loads of no more than 100 students. House counselors also know each student and maintain communication between school and home. While the School is concerned for youngsters' personal development in a period of significant growth, it first and foremost immerses them in a deep and varied academic program. Ninth graders typically report that they have been well-prepared for high school.

The High School, with approximately 1,450 students, is known nationally and internationally for its independent, self-motivated students and faculty. High expectations translate into a college-like experience and atmosphere, but the School program has been planned carefully to support the particular needs of young adults. As part of the middle to high school transition, for instance, ninth graders participate in a humanities course combining English, social studies and guidance support. The School has never abandoned traditional standards or swung with educational fashion; rather, program and teaching have evolved thoughtfully over time. The quality of discourse is high, and students are highly motivated to learn.

Scarsdale is recognized for academic quality. At the same time, its motto is non sibi - "not for oneself alone." The Schools value and provide opportunities for service. We want our students and our graduates to make a positive contribution to others and to their world.