Area Schools at a Glance...

ACHIEVA

ACHIEVA is western Pennsylvania’s largest early intervention provider, with more than 50 years of experience with infants and toddlers. ACHIEVA’s Early Intervention team works with children who are ages 0 to 3 who have either minor developmental delays or more complicated disabilities. Services are tailored to fit a child’s specific needs and are provide in the child’s home. ACHIEVA also provides preschool readiness programs for 2 and 3 year olds with cognitive delays to help them prepare for the transition to preschool. In Beaver, Butler, Clearfield, Clarion and Jefferson counties, ACHIEVA provides independent assessments for infants and toddlers.

Alpha School

An independent, Catholic, co-educational, K-8 school, founded and sponsored by the Sisters of Divine Providence.  Our mission is to provide a comprehensive education for students in a loving, caring atmosphere.  Using traditional and innovative methods in a small class setting, we foster the spiritual, academic, physical, emotional and social growth.  Alpha’s student body reflects the diversity of many countries and philosophies providing the opportunity to enrich and enlighten.  Students are prepared culturally and verbally to be effective, efficient participants in a global community.  Alpha foresees our graduates as independent, creative citizens who have the ability to move within both national and international arenas.

AGORA

The Agora Cyber Charter School and K12 ignite minds of all kinds, bringing learning and possibility alive. As a public cyber school serving Pennsylvania students in kindergarten through twelfth grade with the K12 curriculum—as well as the support of state-certified teachers—Agora is tuition free. The K12912 high school program used by Agora includes more than 90 courses to meet the needs of diverse learners, as well as up to four levels of world languages and electives that let students follow their own path to post-high school success—whether that’s in college or in the workforce.

Assumption School

Assumption School’s mission is to participate with the family and the entire community in the religious, intellectual, personal, social and physical development of each student.  Assumption School is more than just a great academic environment.  It is a place of living Christianity where your child will experience the love of God and embrace his or her Catholic faith.  Assumption School is a positive environment for your child to learn and grow.  We offer a safe learning environment, caring and supportive parish and community, with emphasis on moral values and loving discipline.  Diocesan financial aid information is available.

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Butler Catholic

Butler Catholic School offers a child-centered educational environment where Gospel values and Academic Excellence come together.  Our small class size offers student opportunities for individual attention, be it for extra help or challenges that require them to “go beyond” the ordinary curriculum.  Our Pre-School class size is limited to 15 with parent choice of morning or all day sessions for four year olds.  Full-day kindergarten introduces all students to every area of curriculum from daily Religion class to Spanish and computer classes.  Weekly class Liturgies help students grow in their relationship with God.  We offer a strong athletic program as well as a wide range of activities to enhance the basic curriculum.  Before and after school care program available. 

Christ the Divine Teacher Catholic Academy

Christ the Divine Teacher Catholic Academy is a Pittsburgh Diocesan Regional elementary school providing a Catholic educational program for students enrolled in grades pre-kindergarten through eight. Located in Aspinwall, PA, the school currently serves families residing in the Fox Chapel, Shaler, Hampton, Riverview and Pittsburgh school districts. A focus is placed on the faith formation throughout the curriculum with high academic standards and a variety of extra-curricular activities. The success of our program is manifested by our excellent results on national standardized achievement tests and the levels of accomplishment that have been obtained by our graduates as they continue their educational program and enter the mainstream of society.

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Eden Christian Academy

What do our parents have to say about Eden Christian Academy? “Outstanding academics.” “Each teacher cares about my child.” “They support the values we teach at home.” “Having the Bible integrated in to every subject challenges my kids educationally and spiritually at the same time.”  With reviews like this and achievement test scores up to three grade levels ahead of area public schools, all in a nurturing Christian environment, why not check out Eden for yourself? Eden Christian Academy- Celebrating a quarter-century of learning and living God’s purposes.

Geneva College

At Geneva College, we believe that education is more than career training. It’s a pathway to purpose - a way for you to grow and develop into the person God designed you to be.  Geneva’s 55-acre campus is located in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, approximately 35 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. Founded in 1848 by the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America, Geneva is committed to a Christian worldview that acknowledges God’s sovereignty over every area of creation.  Geneva provides an array of academic options and opportunities. Professors with wide-ranging experience and expertise will expand your mind, challenging you to learn more about yourself and the world around you. Call for a visit today.

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Girls on the Run at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC Opens Spring Registration

Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC is now registering grade school girls for the spring session of Girls on the Run (GOTR) and Girls on Track. Programs begin the week of March 2 and run through May 22. Registration deadline is February 23rd.   Girls on the Run is a non-profit prevention program that encourages preteen girls to develop self-respect and healthy lifestyles through running.  Girls train for 12 weeks with certified GOTR coaches for the 5K run event on May 17th.   This spring there will be 40 Girls on the Run program sites in Southwestern PA for girls in grades 3-8.

The Glen Montessori School

At The Glen Montessori School, food preparation is a fun learning experience.  Each of our 3-6 year old classrooms has a baking day to prepare snack for the next day.  Our choices are dictated by a desire to provide healthy, nutritious food for our children.  Some of the choices this year have been:  granola bars, pumpkin muffins, granola with blueberries and tea biscuits.  Before our winter break, our parents are invited to attend a sing-a-long with our children. They will also be invited to partake of some treats prepared by the children.  Our children benefit in so many ways from their cooking experiences!

Goddard School

By creating an environment where teachers support the nurturing and learning your child needs, where hands-on owners offer a personal interest in your family’s childcare decision, and where your child’s natural curiosity and creativity are developed, The Goddard School® is dedicated to providing the foundation to encourage your child’s lifelong love of learning. Children gain self-confidence as they explore learning centers for dramatic play, math, creative art, science, music and computers. The school’s year round program provides consistency for children from six weeks to six years old, while the choice of either a half- or full-day schedule offers flexibility for families. The North Hills area is home to two Goddard School locations in Cranberry Township and Wexford.

Kane Modeling School & Agency

Six-year-old Haley Scott, a Modeling, Acting & TV Commercial Course student at the Marilyn E. Kane Modeling School & Agency in Butler, has had numerous national bookings in New York City during the past year.  She booked the speaking role of “Young Marah Lewis” on the Guiding Light, a principal role in national TV commercials for Wal-Mart, Chuck E. Cheese, Eggland’s Best Eggs (plus printwork), and “Guess What I Am” game (plus printwork); printwork for Simiplicity Patterns and the children’s book Rumble Tum (cover and feature in) to be released in 2009.

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Kiddie Academy

Owners Mona and Dave Bhatia have brought Kiddie Academy to Wexford. Kiddie Academy is part of a national network of almost 100 child care learning centers; the Wexford location is now open and serves families and their children ages 6 weeks to 12 years old, offering full time care, before- and after-school care and summer camp programs. Kiddie Academy’s proprietary curriculum is called Life EssentialsSM and includes developmentally appropriate instruction, family-style dining (with meals and snacks provided) along with outdoor play and fitness. The learning center is licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, signifying its commitment to quality education and the highest standards in child care.

Kindermusik

Kindermusik by Lynda/musicforalifetime.com offers developmentally appropriate early childhood music/movement classes for children newborn to seven years.  Musical fun and learning continue all week long in the car and at home…for a lifetime.  “Music is an intensely SOCIAL ACTIVITY.  There is an increasing amount of literature that highlights the key impact which peer groups, the family, the relationships between teacher and pupil and between pupils themselves, have upon a child’s interest in and knowledge about music and indeed on their developing personal identity as ‘musical.’”  MacDonald/Miell, “Creativity and Music Education: The Impact of Social Variables” International Journal of Music Education.

The Kiski School

This Kiski School is a college preparatory boys boarding school for grades 9-12 and post-graduates. Day options are also available to boys living in the area. For 121 years, Kiski has provided academic excellence, comprehensive athletic and extracurricular activities, and small classes, allowing each boy to receive personalized attention and extra help when needed.  The school provides rigorous academic instruction based on a liberal arts curriculum of the humanities, sciences and fine arts, with extensive training in computer technology. Kiski is known for its teaching practices suited to the learning needs of boys.  Discover Kiski, the place where we teach boys how they like to be taught.  The Kiski School is located 30 miles east of Pittsburgh.

LaRoche College

A private, Catholic, co-educational college north of Pittsburgh founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche College welcomes students of all religions, ethnic origins and talents.  Undergraduates may choose from more than 50 majors, including the top 10 majors among today’s college students.  La Roche combines educational experience with clubs, athletics, social and community volunteer activities, spiritual well-being, and more to offer students preparation for life – and life goes way beyond the classroom.

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Total Learning Center

You know your child can do better in school, and you have tried everything you know with little results.  TLC determines then solves the real learning problems for preschoolers through adults using cutting-edge researched brain-based methods. Specialties: improving memory, attention, processing (thinking), reading, writing, math, study skills and more. Services: evaluations, tutoring, brain-based programs, enrichment for gifted, speech and language, and teacher and parent consultation and training.  TLC turns school underperformance into achievement beyond your expectations.  Winner! Best Tutoring & College Prep, Nickelodeon.

Michele’s Dance Center

For the 10th year, Michele’s Dance Center participated in Santa Spectacular in Downtown Pittsburgh.  Michele Koerts-Fester is the choreographer and stage manager for this show.  Michele’s Dance Center’s Company is comprised of dancers between the ages of 6 to 18 years old.  Throughout the 2008 holiday season, they performed not only downtown but also at various venues in the community including Passavant Hospital’s Light Up Night, Shoppes at Northway and Ross Park Mall.  Michele’s Dance Center offers classes for ages two through adult in ballet, tap, jazz, tumbling, pointe, hip hop and baton. 

Montessori Children’s Community

Montessori Children’s Community, conveniently located in Sewickley, offers a morning and afternoon Children’s House (Preschool thru K) program as well as Lower and Upper elementary programs. Based on the child centered educational philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, we offer a challenging academic curriculum taught in a stimulating environment where each child is inspired to become a confident and independent learner. Organized into multi-age classrooms with low student to teacher ratios, highly qualified teachers work one-on-one and in collaboration with students. The school offers enrichment classes such as Spanish, Art, Music, Computer, Science Lab and Physical Education. We have a strong community of families and staff dedicated to providing the best education possible for each child. Being part of a nurturing community has allowed our students to develop strong interpersonal skills, moral awareness, and a sense of commitment to making a global contribution. Montessori Children’s Community will provide your child with a strong academic foundation while nurturing his/her love of learning. A Montessori Children’s Community education is the best gift you can give your child!

Pace Learning Center

At 7 years old, Kelly* had spent more time out of school than in.  His classroom behaviors kept disrupting other students and his anxiety about school made it impossible for him to focus on learning.  Pace Learning Center, a program of Pace School, was designed specifically to work with children such as Kelly who are at risk for school failure in these crucial early years.  Pace Learning Center provides a highly structured and individualized learning environment for students in grades K-5 who are experiencing difficulty in their current educational setting due to social, emotional or behavioral challenges.The Pace Learning Center is a private academic school open to referrals from school district representatives or by direct referral from families. 
*Not real Name

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Quigley Catholic

Why has Quigley Catholic been chosen as a one of the top Catholic high schools in the USA for the last five years? Quigley Catholic students and faculty are part of a family environment that focuses on preparing for a successful college and life experience.  This Christ-centered education will challenge each student to become the best that they can be.  Self-discipline and responsibility is stressed everyday.  The AP and college in high school programs gives students an opportunity to earn up to 29 college credits that can be transferred to any college or university.  Come meet our students and faculty.

Rothrock Kung Fu & Tai Chi

Rothrock’s Kung Fu & Tai Chi Studio has been offering instruction and training in Kung Fu since 1973. The academy is headed by Master Rothrock, who has 40 years’ of experience and a staff of expert instructors. The main system of Kung Fu that we teach is Northern Eagle Claw. Classes are separated by level and age and geared toward today’s modern lifestyle. More than just the physical benefits, Kung Fu and Tai Chi develop the mental aspects that improve your everyday life. One of the basic Chinese philosophies of Kung Fu and Tai Chi is that the mind controls the body. 

Sewickley Academy

Sewickley Academy, the oldest independent school in the Pittsburgh region, prepares students for a lifetime of success by inspiring them to reach their full potential as curious, courageous and compassionate learners. Exceptional programs, small classes and talented faculty help our students become conscientious leaders, critical thinkers and responsible members of a global community. The Academy enrolls 800 students in Pre-K through grade 12 and is located approximately 12 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. All grades are located on a single 16-acre campus, with an additional 14 acres nearby containing athletic fields and tennis courts.

Shady Side Academy

Shady Side Academy is a nationally respected private school in Pittsburgh for boys and girls in pre-kindergarten through grade 12, with an optional five-day boarding experience for high school students. Three age-specific campuses with extraordinary resources, teachers who actively mentor, a forward-thinking curriculum, a diverse and inclusive community and a legacy of alumni accomplishments all inspire Shady Side students to high achievement in academics, the arts and athletics and to meaningful ambitions in life.

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Saint Alexis Catholic School

Saint Alexis Catholic School provides a Catholic, safe, warm, and caring environment where each child can grow spiritually, mentally, physically and emotionally.  We offer highly academic, values-based curriculum and also feature the St. Anthony’s program for children with special needs.  We offer programs for PreK 3 and Pre K 4 and both half-day and full-day Kindergarten.   Our grades 1 to 8 are in small classroom environments.  Each Friday our students come together for Liturgies as well as worshipping on other prayerful occasions throughout the year.  Please call us to schedule your tour.

Saint Athanasius School

Saint Athanasius School is located in the West View Borough of North Hills in Pittsburgh.  We serve students in PreK through 8th grade and are accredited by the Middle States Association.  Our manageable class sizes, small-town location, dedicated parents and the nurturing environment created by our faculty and staff make our school a “Family in God.”  We foster creative learning that promotes diversity and active growth in virtue. On May 10, 2009, we’ll celebrate the 100th Anniversary of St. Athanasius School.  All graduates are encouraged
to contact the school office (412-931-6633) for information concerning the celebration.

St. Joseph High School

Since 1915, Saint Joseph High School in Natrona Heights has offered a college preparatory education grounded in the Gospel values of Jesus Christ and has served the families in the Alle-Kiski Valley.  The school creates an environment that nurtures the whole person by encouraging spiritual growth, academic excellence, extracurricular participation and service outreach. Our mission is to graduate men and women who are committed to holiness, justice, integrity and learning.  We exist as a partner to parents, so that adolescents may engage in the process of identity formation secure in the knowledge that home and school share the same commitment to the Catholic Church and its teachings, as well as to the value of personal responsibility and initiative in all areas of the curriculum.  Saint Joseph High School is committed to providing an atmosphere in which each student prepares not only for further formal education, but also for lifelong learning.

St. Sebastian

Saint Sebastian School in the North Hills has been guiding students in the development of spirituality, scholarship and service for more than 50 years.  We offer an innovative education for pre-school, kindergarten and students in grades one through eight.  The success of our curriculum can be measured by standardized test scores that are above the national average and among the highest in the Diocese of Pittsburgh.  Students can participate in a wide range of athletic and extracurricular activities that cultivate talents and friendships.  A Catholic education builds strong minds as well as a strong faith. 

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St. Teresa of Avila School

A Vibrant Part of the North Hills for More Than 100 Years
At St. Teresa of Avila School in Perrysville, Principal Sister Karen Brink is greeting students at the front door as she does every school morning. On this particular day, students are donating new hats, gloves and scarves as part of a service project.  The outerwear will be given to children in economically depressed areas in a neighboring county. Sister Karen believes that her students have eagerly embraced a valuable lesson in giving. “You see it in their eyes,” she says. “They seem so happy and excited to be helping other kids.”  Founded by the Benedictine Sisters more than 102 years ago,  St. Teresa’s provides an enriching curriculum for students in grades pre-K through 8th grade. The school’s distinguished history is complemented by a continued commitment to faith and academic excellence. Students can also participate in a noted sports program, and in extracurricular activities such as robotics, forensics and the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science.  “We want our students to grow and realize their potential,” says Sister Karen as she describes her passion for the school. “It’s a real privilege for me to work here.” St. Teresa’s will host an Open House, January 25 from 9:30a.m.to noon. For more information, call 412.367.9001, ext. 531.

St. Ursula

For almost 100 years, St. Ursula has offered students in grades K-8 an exemplary education rooted in Catholic values.  Exceptional standardized test scores, small class sizes, highly qualified faculty and a close-knit faith community are just a few reasons to choose St. Ursula.  New in fall 2009, St. Ursula will offer a full- or half- day Pre K program to 4 and 5 year olds.  St. Ursula also offers a full day kindergarten program. 

Tender Care Learning Center

So why choose kindergarten at Tender Care Learning Center? We offer a full day Kindergarten program which follows the North Allegheny curriculum. Providing a full day program ensures that the children are not rushed, and we are able to extend the learning process to allow each child the opportunity to truly understand a concept before moving on to something new. We offer a smaller class size. Having a smaller class size ensures that your child will be receiving the utmost attention they deserve.  The teacher is able to work with each child on an individual basis assessing each child’s strengths and weaknesses and then working with that child to ensure they are successful and feel confidence, letting them know they CAN do it.  We offer a variety of hands on materials that allow the children to be active participants in the learning process. As the Chinese proverb says “Tell me and I will forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I will understand.” These are only a few of the many reasons why you need to stop in and visit Tender Care Learning Center where your child will prepare for a life time of learning.

The Young Writers Institute

The Young Writers Institute is an extended creative writing workshop designed to enable students who enjoy writing to learn more about the writing process and their own work. Students can focus intensely on writing in a supportive and stimulating environment where everyone writes.  Students explore multiple genres including poetry, fiction, non-fiction and memoir. Teachers are fellows of the Western Pennsylvania Writing Project or instructors from the Creative Writing Program of the Department of English, University of Pittsburgh.  In a community of writers, students can challenge themselves, getting and giving feedback on new and revised writing.  Two locations: The University of Pittsburgh, Oakland Campus; Mellon Middle School, Mt. Lebanon. Serves students entering  grades 4-8 (both sites) and 9-12 (University site only). Scholarships are available based on need.
Mt.Lebanon: June 22-July 1; University of Pittsburgh: July 6-17. Visit www.wpawritingproject.org for complete information.

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WDA Preschool

Licensed by the PA Board of Education and under the direction of Dr. Robert Prazer, WDA Preschool prepares children ages 3-5 for academic success.  By using a proven curriculum that integrates movement, vision and auditory skills as part of the preschool experience, WDA better prepares children for the ever-increasing demands of academia.  At WDA, the children learn through exciting play experiences while gaining the necessary pre-skills for reading, writing, math and science.  Daily activities include gross and fine motor development, Spanish and Sign Language instruction. 

The Wesley Spectrum

The Wesley Spectrum Elementary Center is a private. academic School for children in kindergarten through third grade and is designed specifically for children with an autism spectrum disorder.  The school offers an assessment that includes skills tracking system and an IEP that identifies areas of focus, including the development of: cognitive, relational, sensory, social and motor skills.  Speech, language, music and occupational therapy are included on-site.  The Wesley Spectrum Family and Child Development Center specializes in the treatment of children with autism.  Other services include: BHRS wraparound, social skills, and therapeutic creative arts.

Western PA Montessori School

Western Pennsylvania Montessori School is the oldest Montessori school in Western Pennsylvania.  Founded in 1965 by a group of parents, the not-for-profit school provides quality, individualized learning programs for 20 months to 6 year olds.  Part-day and full-day classes are available for children as they work to develop their independence, self-direction, self-control and self-esteem.  While learning within the Montessori philosophy, the children also take Physical Education, Music and Spanish.  The school is licensed by the American Montessori Society, The PA Department of Education and the Department of Public Welfare.

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