At Sudbury Valley School, students from preschool through high school age explore the world freely, at their own pace and in their own unique ways.
They learn to think for themselves, and learn to use information age tools to unearth the knowledge they need from multiple sources.
They develop the ability to make clear logical arguments, and deal with complex ethical issues.
Through self-initiated activities, they pick up the basics; as they direct their lives, they take responsibility for outcomes, set priorities, allocate resources, and work with others in a vibrant community. Trust and respect are the keys to the school's success.
Students enjoy total intellectual freedom, and unfettered interaction with other students and adults.
Through being responsible for themselves and for the school's operation, they gain the internal resources needed to lead effective lives.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- School Type: School with Special Program Emphasis
- Grades: Nursery/Preschool-12
- Enrollment: 120 students
- Yearly Tuition: $10,500
- Acceptance rate: 99%
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
School Type
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Nursery/Preschool-12
Offers Post-Graduate Year
Yes
Year Founded
1968
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
120 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
24%
State avg.: 29%
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
10 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
12:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
30%
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
no dress code
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$10,500
Tuition Notes
sliding scale for siblings
Acceptance Rate
99%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Hanna Greenberg
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Sudbury Valley School cost?
Sudbury Valley School's tuition is approximately $10,500 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Sudbury Valley School?
The acceptance rate of Sudbury Valley School is 99%, which is higher than the national average of 70%.
When is the application deadline for Sudbury Valley School?
The application deadline for Sudbury Valley School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
Related Schools
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People that viewed Sudbury Valley School also viewed these schools: Wayside Academy, Boston College Campus School, Brandon School & Residental Treatment, Walnut Hill School For The Arts and The Brighton School.
The nearest high school and elementary school to Sudbury Valley School is Reed Academy (0.0 miles away)
The nearest preschool is Summit Montessori School (1.6 miles away)
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Wayside Academy
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Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
(617) 552-3223
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Brandon School & Residental Treatment
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Grades: 5-12 | 39 students 6.4 miles 27 Winter St
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(508) 655-6400
Natick, MA 01760
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Grades: 9-12 | 277 students 6.5 miles 12 Highland Street
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Natick, MA 01760
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Grades: PK-6 | 65 students 8.7 miles 360 Water Street
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School Reviews
5 6/20/2022
We have been so delighted with the Sudbury Valley School for our children! It is a very special place that is defined by individual freedom and personal responsibility, and that allows children to have autonomy over their own lives and learning. Our children thrive in such an environment, and I'd recommend SVS to any parent looking for a self-directed school that enables children to enjoy maximum freedom in community with others, while surrounded by a beautiful campus and top-notch facilities. SVS has proven its model for over 50 years and has inspired dozens of other schools around the world to emulate its success. A great school!
5 6/1/2021
We love Sudbury Valley! Both of our boys attended SVS for 8+ years and both have grown to be happy and productive adults. Most who are unfamiliar with the philosophy of the school will immediately ask, but what about college? I will tell you both of our boys decided to go to college. I emphasize they decided, because what they got from their education at Sudbury Valley was the ability to set goals and to forge their individual path to a happy and productive life. We couldn't be more proud of their independence. As hard as it was to trust our little ones to make important decisions and know what was right for themselves, I am here to say it was one of the best decisions we made as parents.
5 3/29/2020
An amazing schooling system that places the student in the front. Through the use of democratic systems SVS is able to promote personal and community development within its school body. By allowing for self-directed education students discover passions and tangential interests. Aside from an impressive model the school has employed it stays well staffed with prior educators and academics that are more than willing to aid students in any pursuit.
5 11/2/2018
There are so many things l love about this school. But I think the one that I find most inspiring is the commitment to a radical democracy. The weekly school meeting votes on all issues including tuition, staffing, and school rules. For all students (K-12) and staff its one person one vote. This gives real teeth to the idea that the kids own their own education, which underlies the school's philosophy. One needs to visit to get any sense of the place. They hold periodic open houses check their web site for next one.
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