5 Reasons Why Parents Choose Independent Schools like Elisabeth Morrow School [dedicated]

Something happens when your child lands in a school that is the perfect fit for them. They have the confidence to take risks and try new things (and occasionally fail). They look and feel comfortable in their own skins. They are curious and open to exploring ideas and concepts. In short, they blossom.

Each child is different and the right educational route for one kid might not be the right path for another, even in the same family. But finding that place of security and comfort for your child is important. And magical. The Elisabeth Morrow School, a co-ed independent school in Englewood, N.J., strives to be just such a place of learning, innovation and inspiration for each student who chooses to enroll. But what makes EMS, and other independent schools, different?

Here are 5 Reasons Parents Choose Independent Schools like The Elisabeth Morrow School. 

Independent schools are known for their cutting-edge, exemplary academics. Independent schools like The Elisabeth Morrow School prepare students for a future that demands critical thinkers, problem solvers and leaders. Because they have some flexibility in their curriculum, they are able to offer students hands-on laboratories like EMS’s Exploration Alley (for early childhood students) and Innovation Alley (lower school) that foster STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) knowledge while promoting an environment of exploration, collaboration and communication. 

Children are at the center of an independent school’s community. Independent schools recognize and celebrate each child as an individual. Kids at EMS can spend up to 12 years there  (if they enter in the 2-year old program and stay through eighth grade), which gives teachers and administrators a long time to get to know them and foster their academic growth. Students are respected and valued members of the educational community.Children are at the center of an independent school’s community.

Independent schools embody the twin philosophies of diversity and inclusion. Differences in perspectives and life experiences are invaluable tools for learning in children of all ages. Today’s world is both global and local so it is critical that kids find comfort in their differences as well as the things they have in common. That’s why more than half of The Elisabeth Morrow School student body is composed of students of color and more than 20 languages are spoken by EMS families. 

Independent schools sponsor, support and encourage a focus on the arts and extracurricular activities. Independent schools are known for having inventive media, music, theater and arts programs along with robust sports and physical education offerings. At EMS, students explore the arts with daily music for the youngest learners and increasingly challenging classes in visual arts, ceramics, theater, orchestra and concert and jazz bands as they grow. Students in the seventh and eighth grades are required to participate in interscholastic sports and each team member is guaranteed playing time in each game. 

Life skills are critical components of an independent school education. True success is measured by a person’s achievements, and courtesy, consideration, cooperation and compassion should be the guiding principles that define every student’s experience. These 4 C’s, focused on at EMS, help shape the respectful, responsible leaders who will make a difference long after their formal education has ended. The Elisabeth Morrow School’s shared purpose is to provide exemplary academics and character development in a diverse and inclusive child-centered community, inspiring students to become curious scholars, ethical leaders and global citizens. 

The Elisabeth Morrow School, an independent day school serving children age 2 through eighth grade, is now accepting applications for its new 2s program and the 2020 school year. Join them for a 2s program Open House, scheduled for March 10, April 7 and April 25. To RSVP for an Open House or to learn more about the school, please contact (201) 568-5566, ext. 7212, or ​[email protected].