The Red Cedar School

The Red Cedar School in Bristol, Vermont is a small, K-8 independent school serving 46 students with intentional support for learning differences. With an average class size of just 10 students and 80% of faculty holding advanced degrees, the school creates a responsive learning environment where each child's individual needs and voice are honored. The school specifically offers Learning Difference Programs, making it a strong fit for families seeking specialized academic support within a community-based setting.

The curriculum emphasizes interactive, meaning-based learning that develops critical thinking, communication skills, and personal responsibility. Red Cedar incorporates diverse teaching methods including inquiry-based instruction, discussion, experiential learning, and arts integration. Students benefit from the school's outdoor classroom, field studies, wilderness trips, and guest speaker programs—approaches that support multiple learning styles and help students engage authentically with material.

Founded in 1989, Red Cedar maintains a commitment to inclusive community values. Tuition runs $10,500 for K-6 and $11,183 for grades 7-8, with 30% of families receiving financial aid. The school has an 80% acceptance rate and rolling admissions; prospective families should contact admissions director Jacquie Werner-Gavrin at (802) 453-5213 to learn more about how the Learning Difference Programs and small-class model can support their child.