The Impact of an Independent Education
Determining the best placement for your child can be an exciting, but overwhelming task. We have assembled some important points about independent schools and why they may be the best fit for your child.
What is an Independent School?
An independent school is different from other school choices because they do not receive funding from state or government entities. Instead, Sumner Academy is governed by our Board of Trustees, which is composed of invested parents and/or family members, alumni, and community stakeholders. The Board helps to oversee the school's financial health and mission and selects the head-of-school to manage the daily operations of the school.
Being an independent school means that funding is primarily collected from tuition and the generous donations of the community. The cost of educating a student at Sumner Academy is greater than the cost of tuition, so fundraising and donations are an important way to help ensure that each student receives an unbeatable educational experience.
What Curriculum Do Independent Schools Use?
Most independent schools have autonomy in the curriculum and standardized testing process that is used. Many independent schools write their own curriculums by utilizing the expertise of their teachers and staff while upholding the school's mission and best practices. At Sumner Academy, students in grades 3-8 participate in one standardized testing event in April of each year. The results of these tests are shared with our families, but are not used in determining matriculation or counted in the students grades. Instead, the results are intended to guide best practices and inform teacher's of potential areas of growth.
At Sumner Academy, teachers have the ability to determine the best methods of instruction for their students. Our unique learning community structure encourages teachers to collaborate with their peers to ensure continuity in a child's educational experience.
Independent schools have high academic standards and encourage students to think critically, employ problem-solving techniques, and explore a variety of learning methods. Students at Sumner Academy are encouraged to pursue their interests and passions while participating in a variety of classes, including Art, Music, Spanish, and more.
What About Community Involvement?
Parent involvement and independent schools is a great way to continue to strengthen and build the school community. Parents are highly encouraged to participate in their child's education and to be an active part in the school experience. Positive communication between the school, teachers, and parents is paramount for the success of the child.
We host numerous events throughout the year that encourage parents to become involved. Our PTO also has many opportunities for parents to volunteer.
Small class sizes allow individualized attention and strong relationships to form between students and staff members. At Sumner Academy, we strive for our teachers and staff members knowing each child who walks our campus, from their interests to their weekend activities. This ensures a safe, nurturing environment for all of our students.
Options After Sumner Academy?
Each independent school can be different in the grade levels they serve; some focus on the early learning years while others may serve students from PreK through to senior year of high school. Regardless of the age range, each independent school had unique opportunities and experiences that are meant to serve their students.
With the PreK-8 model as a foundation, Sumner Academy students learn and grow in a nurturing atmosphere that gives them the time and guidance to explore who they are, establish goals, and hone their interests. By the time they reach eighth grade, they are fully prepared to choose the high school that best fits who they have become - and they are fully prepared to be leaders when they get there.
SA graduates enroll in both area independent schools and public schools. No matter their next home, our students' foundational learning carries them to success at these next steps in their education. Often, our students are enrolled in at least one honors or above grade-level class; they know how to ask for help from their teachers and to advocate for themselves and their peers.