At Kent School, we believe the early years of a child’s education are the foundation for a lifetime of curiosity, confidence, and achievement. An investment in an independent school experience empowers a child to reach their fullest potential—academically, artistically, athletically, and morally. We continue to invest in outstanding programming, exceptional educators, and inspiring facilities. We are thrilled that the Osprey Innovation Center and renovated Middle School building will open in September 2026!
Why a Kent School Education Matters
A Kent School education is intentionally designed to support the whole child: academically, socially, emotionally, and developmentally.
Early Childhood: Building Strong Foundations
In Little School and Kindergarten, we know that play and independence strengthen brain development and executive function—skills essential for learning. Jonathan Haidt’s recent work, The Anxious Generation, reinforces the importance of unsupervised play and independence in developing resilience, confidence, and emotional well‑being. Prioritizing play in the early years prepares students beautifully for academic success.
The Power of the K–8 Model
A growing body of research supports the benefits of K–8 learning environments. Students feel safer, more confident, and better supported than in traditional middle school settings. Studies from New York University affirm this, and clinical psychologist Michael Thompson writes: “If I could design psychologically safe schools, every elementary school in America would go from K through Grade 8.”
A Rich and Comprehensive Educational Experience
As an accredited independent school, we offer an outstanding, student‑centered program supported by expert faculty and rich opportunities, including:
- Exemplary Language Arts, Literature, Humanities, and Writing instruction
- Small‑group and individual Language Arts and Math support through our Learning Strategists
- A comprehensive K–8 Mathematics curriculum
- Science and Chesapeake Bay Studies for Pre‑K–8, including overnight field experiences
- Project‑based Social Studies, History, and Geography
- Spanish instruction from Pre‑K–Grade 8
- Library classes and research skills development
- Physical Education for all grades and six Middle School athletic teams
- Vocal and instrumental music, composition, and optional Chorus
- Visual Arts, ceramics, claymation, graphic design, digital photography, and Art Club
- Social‑emotional learning and Leadership Lab for Grade 7
- Middle School Advisory and Health & Wellness
- Middle School electives such as coding, robotics, 3‑D printing, culinary arts, environmental sustainability, poetry, and yearbook
- Leadership opportunities through Student Government and Red/White Team Captain roles
- Secondary School placement support
- Writing Workshop for Grade 8
- Drama and musical theater production for Grade 8
- Chromebooks for Grades 4–8 and iPads for Grades K–3
- Field learning experiences at all grade levels
- Community service across divisions
- Counseling services for social and emotional well‑being
- Weekly community meetings
- Cultural assemblies
- Visiting Writer Program supported by the Kudner Leyon Memorial Endowment
Continued Growth & Innovation
Our work is further strengthened by our nine‑year partnership with the Center for Transformative Teaching and Learning (CTTL) at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School—making Kent School the only PK–8 school in Maryland engaged in this nationally recognized research‑informed professional training. This collaboration reinforces and advances our commitment to teaching in ways aligned with how young minds learn best.
