Why choose Benchmark? When your bright child has a learning difference, you want to be sure that you are choosing an educational home where your child will be understood, supported, and can thrive.
At its founding in 1970, Benchmark School was an educational pioneer in supporting children who learn differently, and it remains so today. In our five decades of helping children with learning differences, we have graduated thousands of students who have gone on to thrive educationally and professionally. Our time-tested approach and proven successes are unparalleled.
Benchmark School's mission is to help bright students who have yet to reach their potential become confident and strategic thinkers, learners, and problem-solvers who meet with success in school and in life.
We believe that every child is entitled to a learning environment where there is respect for uniqueness and instruction is designed to build on students' strengths, help address their weaknesses, and develop their potential.
Benchmark develops self-efficacy, confidence, social skills, and motivation for learning along with a focus on academic skills.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked PA School
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: 1-8
- Enrollment: 169 students
- Yearly Tuition: $45,700
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Benchmark School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for:
Category
Attribute
Advanced Degrees
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 1-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
dyslexia, executive function skills deficit , language-based learning differences, ADHD, ADD, dysgraphia
Year Founded
1970
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
169 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
27%
State avg.: 27%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
43 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
4:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
85%
Average Class Size
12 students
List of Courses Offered
Matriculation DataMatric. Data
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
khaki pants or skirt & collared shirt
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$45,700
Tuition Notes
No additional fees
Grades 1-5: $45,700
Grades 6-8: $47,600 (includes the use of a MacBook for each student)
Tuition covers all fees, including the individual electronic devices (laptops/iPads), sports, activities, field trips, clubs, books, and lunch.
Summer Program Cost Notes
Variety of program options
% on Financial Aid
33%
Admissions Director
Megan Wonderland
Admissions Associate
Jamie Lauth
Endowment Size
$9 million
Sports
Total Sports Offered
7 sports
Sports
School Notes
- Benchmark School is an independent, co-educational school for bright children in grades 1-8 who learn differently.
- Benchmark is intentional about cultivating an accepting and supportive climate that allowsour studentsthe space to flourish as learners and to make lasting friendships.
- Classes are intentionally small, with no more than 13 students per classroom and multiple teachers in all language arts and math classrooms.
- Self-efficacy, confidence, social skills and motivation for learning are emphasized along with a focus on academic skills.
- Instruction at Benchmark is provided in an environment that is structured and supportive while being intellectually stimulating.
- Our graduates are prepared to find success in high school, college and beyond, with virtually all of our graduates going on to higher education, attending many of our nation's top colleges and universities.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Benchmark School cost?
Benchmark School's tuition is approximately $45,700 for private students.
Does Benchmark School offer a summer program?
Yes, Benchmark School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does Benchmark School offer?
Benchmark School offers 7 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cheering, E-sports, Flag Football, Golf, Indoor Soccer and Soccer.
What is Benchmark School's ranking?
Benchmark School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for: Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.
When is the application deadline for Benchmark School?
The application deadline for Benchmark School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5
My son started attending Benchmark in 5th grade (he is now in 6th grade) after being diagnosed with dysgraphia in 4th grade. We have been so happy with the specialized instruction and attention he has gotten. The teachers are incredible and are helping him understand how his brain works. He's definitely made huge strides and feels more capable and competent. His self-esteem was so low by the end of 4th grade because he felt like he was so behind his peers. And this was despite his having tutoring for 2 years. He really needed teachers who understand how his brain works and tools so he can be successful. He absolutely sees his potential now rather than feeling like he'll be limited. We are especially happy with how the middle school focuses on preparing them for high school and beyond.
5
Benchmark School has played a meaningful role in my life-not just as an alumnus, but now as a parent of a current student. Having experienced the school firsthand, I knew the kind of environment I wanted for my own child-and Benchmark has exceeded expectations. As an alumnus, I can confidently say that Benchmark truly set me up for success-not just for high school, college, and law school but for business and for life. It taught me how to think critically, how to ask questions, how to be proactive, and how to think outside the box. Those foundational skills have been instrumental in helping me thrive. Today, I'm seeing that same level of care, support, and individualized attention being given to my son. He's thriving both academically and emotionally, and it's clear he feels supported every day. From a parent's perspective, Benchmark has also been a true partner. The communication is clear, consistent, and thoughtful, and it's evident that they value a strong relationship with families. Benchmark is a truly special place-one that empowers students to succeed not only in school but far beyond it.
5
I am an alum and past parent. The quality of education is unmatched, and if your child is bright but has yet to reach their full potential, Benchmark is a place you have to look at. The deciding factor for my wife and me was the classroom size/student-to-teacher ratio. It says 4:1, but it could easily be closer to 3:1. They have two fully qualified teachers in every classroom, and the classes are no larger than 11 or 12 students.
5
Enrolling our daughter in The Benchmark School was the best decision my wife and I have made. The community is welcoming and supportive. The teachers are absolutely an amazing and dedicated group of educators that meet each child where they are in their learning journey. Upon graduation, our daughter understood herself as a learner with the self-confidence to advocate for herself in any situation. She is currently thriving in high school and has said on more than one occasion that she routinely uses the strategies and techniques she took from Benchmark in her current classes. I would strongly recommend Benchmark to any family that is considering enrolling in the school.
5
Benchmark is an amazing school! The faculty and staff are talented, dedicated and caring and experts at getting to know each child and their learning needs. I would highly recommend Benchmark to any family who has children with learning differences.
5 4/2/2025
I wholeheartedly recommend the Benchmark School. The school's nurturing community genuinely cares for each student, ensuring they are supported academically and personally. One thing I truly value is the one-on-one attention my child receives, which has made a significant difference in his learning journey. Benchmark's expertise in developing executive functioning skills has provided my child with the tools to take charge of his learning, understand his individual strengths, and set goals that inspire him. Watching him achieve those goals with pride is something that sets Benchmark far above other schools.Benchmark's social environment is equally exceptional. It offers a supportive space where students feel accepted, confident, and valued. The school recognizes my son's empathetic nature and nurtures it in meaningful ways. He's excited to go to school every day, which brings so much joy and peace to our family. Benchmark also maintains excellent communication with parents, keeping us informed and involved. Knowing that my child is thriving in such a warm, supportive place reassures me that he's getting the best education possible. It is also reassuring to know that Benchmark graduates go on to thrive as students and professionals after they leave Benchmark in 8th grade.
5 3/28/2025
I graduated from Benchmark in 2013, and looking back, I can easily see that my learning trajectory improved so much once I graduated from Benchmark. Classrooms each had two teachers, which allowed for a lot of individual attention to each student; this helped to get to know each student's individual learning style. I have dyslexia, and Benchmark helped me to find my spark to want to learn again by finding ways to comprehend and remember textbooks and stories. Lastly, they taught me how to be a self-advocate who would ask future teachers and professors what I would need from them to fully succeed in their class. These lessons I brought with me all the way through college and still use today. I have a lot to thank Benchmark for; they gave me my curiosity, voice, and confidence in myself and how I can overcome any challenges.
5 3/28/2025
This school is simply amazing! Our child started Benchmark in 1st grade. At that time, she was transferring from another private school unable to read, and she lacked confidence in her abilities. Within a month of being at Benchmark, she was reading books by herself. She was also able to complete a report and present her findings (confidently) before the end of the same year. Between first and third grade, she grew in a way that I could never imagine. She understood how she processed things, how she learned and how to advocate for herself. All of her teachers were dedicated to getting to know her strengths and areas of improvement. We left Benchmark when we moved to Delaware. However, after a year of being away, we returned. This school is worth the commute! 6 to 1 student/teacher ratio, teachers that care, students who are kind, parents who are supportive, a beautiful campus and a great curriculum. I encourage you to check it out if you, too, have a child who learns differently.
5 3/28/2025
I can't say enough positive things about the teachers and overall community at Benchmark. My experience was truly transformative. I entered Benchmark in fourth grade barely able to read. By the time I left 8th grade, I was well prepared for high school. Coming out of Benchmark, I knew how I needed to learn and absorb information. This served me well through college and into my working years.
5 3/21/2025
I cannot recommend Benchmark School highly enough-it has been an outstanding experience for our family. What truly sets this school apart is its comprehensive approach to education, which emphasizes not only academics but also the social and emotional well-being of students. The teachers and staff take the time to understand each child individually, providing tailored support that helps them excel.For my child, one of the greatest advantages has been the development of executive functioning skills. Benchmark has taught them how to approach learning effectively, a skill that will be valuable throughout their academic journey and future career. The school emphasizes the importance of students taking ownership of their education and personal development. By recognizing their unique learning styles and strengths, students are able to develop strategies that work best for them. This level of self-awareness builds both confidence and independence, which are essential for long-term success. I've also heard from other local schools that Benchmark graduates are better prepared for high school than students from any other nearby school. If you want a school that places equal importance on academic achievement and personal growth, Benchmark is an excellent choice.
5 3/7/2025
We enrolled our son in Benchmark in 2nd grade and it was the best decision we could have made to support his confidence, growth and development as a student. Benchmark is a fantastic learning environment where teachers embrace each child as an individual learner and adapt to an approach that best fits the needs of the individual. In the past year, our son has developed executive functioning skills sufficient to generate and execute a plan with confidence. Additionally, our son has demonstrated the ability to speak up and advocate for himself, ask for guidance when needed, and make bold recommendations. As a parent, the unexpected benefit is the great sense of community surrounding Benchmark fostered by the administration, teachers, alumni and parents. I recommend Benchmark to anyone who is looking to provide their children with the right level of support needed to take control of their own thinking, make good decisions, and achieve goals.
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