Our mission at First Presbyterian School is to provide our students with not only a quality educational experience, but also a meaningful life experience that nurtures and respects the whole child immersed in a safe and inspiring environment where authentic learning thrives.
Our curriculum is influenced by the Reggio Emilia approach to early education; the Reggio approach promotes key fundamental values relating to how children learn.
These core values have been adapted to our school based on our culture, environment and the specific needs of our unique community.
Our interpretation of the Reggio core values continues to progress as our educational methods develop to connect the intellectual, spiritual, social, physical and emotional needs of each child we serve.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked TX School
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-8
- Enrollment: 288 students
- Yearly Tuition: $8,500
- Acceptance rate: 90%
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
First Presbyterian School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Texas for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-8
Year Founded
1981
Summer School Offered
Yes
Student Body
Total Students
288 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
27 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
11:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
25%
Average Class Size
12 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Early Birds Program: 7:30 - 8:30 am
Core program 8:30 - 12:30 pm
Extended Day 12:30 - 3:00 pm
Afternoon Enrichment 3:00 - 5:20 pm
Summer Program Cost
$550
Summer Program Cost Notes
1/2 day 550 per month
Full day 880 per month
Acceptance Rate
90%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Heather Karns
Admissions Associate
Kristin Pacheco
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
1 extracurricular
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Arts and Music Programs:
Afternoon Enrichment
Afternoon Enrichment
School Notes
- CurriculumChildren construct their own knowledge through intentionally planned curriculum that engages and builds upon a child's current knowledge, recognizing that knowledge cannot simply be provided for the child. Our curriculum, often emergent in nature, is based on the interests of the children.Emergent curriculum requires that teachers actively observe, seek out and chase the interests of the children. This kind of teaching environment demands a high degree of trust in the teacher's creative abilities and embraces an image of the child as a capable, competent seeker of knowledge. Our teachers ensure that creativity and innovation are always present; although our thriving classrooms require organization and routines, the learning experience is never inflexible and rarely routine.
- At First Pres, we are guided, but not bound, by the Texas State Standards. Our students reach and go beyond these standards through meaningful and significant experiences where skills are applied in context. We integrate all fields of knowledge (math, science, social studies, language arts/reading/writing, music, technology, physical education, art, theatre, etc.). We do not separate one from another as they are all naturally connected in life. Our students see these connections in concrete ways through the experiences, research, and projects that they are involved in every day.
- Projects are regarded as adventures into learning and they can last anywhere from one week to the entire school year! These projects help to build the foundations of study and independent research, through topics inspired by the students' curiosity. Our students work collaboratively, individually, in pairs, and with the teachers through a process of trial and error, discussion, and elaboration of theories, learning from each other throughout. Group work includes different approaches toward the same investigation so that all students have an access point and are allowed to share their perspective with others. Our students are encouraged to express their opinions and ideas through discussion, critique, comparison, negotiation, and problem-solving.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does First Presbyterian School cost?
First Presbyterian School's tuition is approximately $8,500 for private students and $550 for summer students.
What is the acceptance rate of First Presbyterian School?
The acceptance rate of First Presbyterian School is 90%, which is higher than the national average of 84%.
What is First Presbyterian School's ranking?
First Presbyterian School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Texas for: Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for First Presbyterian School?
The application deadline for First Presbyterian School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is First Presbyterian School located?
First Presbyterian School is located in the West Central El Paso neighborhood of El Paso, TX. There are 2 other private schools located in West Central El Paso.
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