K-8 independent school on Upper West Side with Learning Difference Programs and personalized instruction
The School at Columbia University is a K-8 independent school in New York City that serves students with diverse learning profiles, including those with learning differences. The school explicitly offers Learning Difference Programs and is committed to tailoring instruction to meet individual student needs through a supportive, academically challenging environment.
With an average class size of 15 students and a faculty where 85% hold advanced degrees, the school provides personalized attention within a knowledge-based constructivist framework. The curriculum emphasizes real-world learning through essential questions and themes, allowing students to engage meaningfully with academic content. The school's pedagogical approach explicitly examines ability alongside other dimensions of identity, fostering social-emotional support alongside academic rigor.
Founded in 2003 and located on the Upper West Side, the school enrolls 479 students and maintains a diverse, inclusive student body (56% students of color). Tuition is $35,000 annually, and the school offers a generous financial aid program to qualified families. Admission is competitive, with an October 31st deadline. Contact the admissions office at (212) 851-4288 or visit theschool.columbia.edu for more information about whether their Learning Difference Programs align with your child's needs.
At a Glance
GradesKindergarten-8
Students479
Class Size15:1 ratio
Tuition$35,000
Est.2003
DeadlineOct. 31
Accreditation & Memberships
National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS)
State or regional independent school association, New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS)
School Information
| Year Founded | 2003 |
| Yearly Tuition Cost | $35,000 |
| Tuition Notes | Very limited admissions eligibility but generous financial aid program. |
| Total Students | 479 |
| Total Classroom Teachers | 107 |
| Percent of Faculty with Advanced Degree | 85 |
| Average Class Size | 15 |
| Grades Offered | Kindergarten-8 |
Admissions Information
| Admissions Director | Rekha Puri |
| Admissions Associate | Dana Greebel |
| Admission Deadline | Oct. 31 |
Student Body Information
| Student Body Type | Co-ed |
| Percent of Students of Color | 56 |
Academic Programs Information
Special Education Programs
Learning Difference Programs
Additional Information
| Classroom Dress Code | Casual |
| School Memberships | National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) · State or regional independent school association · New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS) |
| Religious Affiliations | Nonsectarian |
| School Calendar | theschool.columbia.edu/quicklinks/calendar |
| Summer School Offered | Yes |