The Highlands School is a private, 501(c)(3) institution with accreditation from the Association of Independent Maryland & DC Schools (AIMS).
Our school is dedicated to educating K-8 students with learning differences and achievement gaps.
With the knowledge that one in five students faces learning challenges and one in ten deals with dyslexia, we strive to bridge these gaps.
In Harford County alone, nearly 8,000 students could benefit from The Highlands School's unique support.
Our team of highly trained educators employs specialized teaching methods and a shared commitment, resulting in successfully reintegrating over 1,800 students into public and private schools.
We achieve this through a 2:1 student-teacher ratio, personalized educational plans, and research-backed accommodations.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked MD School
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 69 students
- Yearly Tuition: $29,500
- Acceptance rate: 70%
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
The Highlands School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Maryland for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Dyslexia, ADHD, and other language-based learning differences
Year Founded
1996
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
69 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
15%
State avg.: 37%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
26 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
3:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
60%
Average Class Size
12 students
List of Courses Offered
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Uniform
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$29,500
Tuition Notes
Please contact school.
Summer Program Cost
$2,880
% on Financial Aid
80%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$4,000
Acceptance Rate
70%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Claudia Nachtigal
Admissions Associate
Michelle Miller
Sports
Total Sports Offered
4 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
6 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Pep Squad, Running Club, Service Club
Arts and Music Programs:
Chorus, Drama Club, Robotics
Arts and Music Programs:
Chorus, Drama Club, Robotics
School Notes
- Welcome!
- Thank you for your interest in The Highlands School. Highlands is a private, independent, AIMS-accredited2 program designed for students with dyslexia, ADHD, and language-based learning differences. We have been changing lives since the school first opened its doors in 1996. In 2007, we moved to our current state-of-the-art facility which is located on a beautiful 18-acre campus in Bel Air, Maryland that was once home to the Preakness-winning racehorse Deputed Testamony.
- I invite you to spend some time exploring our website. I am confident that you will find Highlands to be a vibrant school community. During the school year, we have a full academic program that provides our lower and middle school students with a complete classroom experience as well as small-group instruction. We are very excited to have added an Upper School and we look forward to the first Highlands graduating class in 2018!
- In addition to classroom and small group instruction, options for on-site tutoring is available. There are many opportunities for experiential learning including our Hands-On-Highlands Program which is a groundbreaking K-12th-grade curriculum that engages students in a multi-disciplinary technical education. During the summer Highlands continues to bustle with activities like our Mind Jump Summer Program, non-academic camps, and HSPT prep. Outside of the classroom students have the opportunity to become involved in activities such as our Musical, Chorus, Robotics, Agriculture, 4-H, Woodworking, Basketball, Cheer, and much more!
- At Highlands, we challenge our students to utilize research-based teaching methods that work. Students receive individualized instruction and are taught using multiple modalities in a safe, caring, and supportive environment. Our goal is to unlock our students` potential; thus, giving them the confidence they need to pursue their dreams and passions. In the school`s 20+ year history, our dedicated and talented faculty members have helped over 1,600 students by empowering them with the tools they needed for personal and academic success.
- There is no better way to understand the "Highlands Way" than to experience it. Come join us for a visit to see what The Highlands School is all about!
- Claudia Nachtigal, MATS, CAEL
- Head of School
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does The Highlands School cost?
The Highlands School's tuition is approximately $29,500 for private students and $2,880 for summer students.
What schools are The Highlands School often compared to?
The Highlands School is often viewed alongside schools like High Road School Of Harford County by visitors of our site.
What is the acceptance rate of The Highlands School?
The acceptance rate of The Highlands School is 70%, which is lower than the national average of 81%. The Highlands School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Maryland with low acceptance rates.
Does The Highlands School offer a summer program?
Yes, The Highlands School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does The Highlands School offer?
The Highlands School offers 4 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Dance and Soccer.
What is The Highlands School's ranking?
The Highlands School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Maryland for: Lowest average acceptance rates.
When is the application deadline for The Highlands School?
The application deadline for The Highlands School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
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