Nardin Academy is fully accredited to ensure the highest standards of education and continuous improvement at every level. Our Montessori program is accredited by the American Montessori Society, recognized nationally for excellence in Montessori education. The entire school, including the High School, holds accreditation from the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges, reaffirmed through a rigorous process every seven years. These accreditations mean we meet strict quality standards, giving families confidence in the academic and community experience we provide. Learn more about our accreditation process.

Students at Nardin Academy have access to a robust selection of Advanced Placement (AP) courses across subjects like English, History, Math, Science, World Languages, and Computer Science. There is no limit on the number of AP or Honors courses a qualified student may take, though we recommend no more than three per year to maintain balance. The school maintains an open enrollment policy for AP courses, allowing students to challenge themselves as they wish. Additionally, students can take dual enrollment classes through SUNY Erie in specific courses, providing college credit opportunities. Students may also expand their options by taking extra courses online via One Schoolhouse.

Highlights:
- 19 AP courses and 8 Honors classes available
- AP courses prepare students for college-level work and exams
- Open enrollment policy for AP classes
- Dual enrollment available through SUNY Erie in select courses
- Opportunity to take additional courses online via One Schoolhouse

Learn more about our high school curriculum and AP offerings to see how we support rigorous academics and college readiness.

Nardin Academy offers rich STEM and STEAM opportunities across all grade levels to spark curiosity and build real-world skills.

Preschool & Kindergarten: Hands-on Montessori activities introduce early math and science concepts through tactile learning and nature exploration.

Lower School: Lower School Students have thematic school-wide STEM Learning Events each month.

Middle School: The curriculum emphasizes digital citizenship, robotics, coding, and responsible AI exploration. After-school clubs have included Engineering for Kids, Future Scientists Society, STEM career exploration, birding, fun science experiments, Lego, and Girls Who Code.

High School: Advanced courses include Robotics, AP Computer Science, Principles of Engineering, Environmental Science, and more. The Koessler Innovation and Technology Center supports research, coding, and design projects.

Explore our after-school electives and computer science curriculum for detailed offerings.

Nardin offers a comprehensive World Language program starting in early childhood and continuing through high school.

Preschool & Kindergarten: Students begin with semi-immersion classes in French and Spanish, where most instruction is in the target language, making learning fun and natural.

Lower School: World Language classes focus on French and Spanish, building foundational skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing, along with cultural exploration and interactive activities.

Middle School: French and Spanish classes are nearly fully immersive, with at least 85% of instruction conducted in the target language. An honors track is available in Spanish for grades 7 and 8. Students who attend Nardin Middle School for all four years or enter with comparable experience often test into advanced high school language courses (level 2 or 3).

High School: Students can choose from Spanish and French courses, including advanced, honors, and AP levels, with classes conducted primarily in the language. While Latin is no longer offered, a Latin-based Medical Terminology elective is available. Opportunities to travel and participate in cultural events further enrich learning.

Learn more about our Lower School World Language, Middle School language offerings, and High School World Language curriculum.

Nardin offers a rich variety of after-school academic and enrichment programs tailored to every age.

Preschool & Kindergarten: Our Montessori and early childhood programs include after-school options like yoga and creative arts that nurture motor skills and calm focus.

Lower School: Students can explore interests through electives such as Lego Club, art, yoga, dance, STEM activities, embroidery, and teambuilding through the Huddle Up! Football Program. Additionally, the Lower School hosts monthly whole-school STEM mornings where students engage in thematic engineering tasks.

Middle School: After-school clubs include fine arts, science, robotics, and leadership opportunities, encouraging curiosity and confidence. Private tutoring with our teachers is also available for an additional fee.

High School: While focused on academics, students also engage in arts, service, and specialized electives after school.

Learn more about our diverse after-school electives designed to spark creativity and growth.

We offer a variety of summer camps for all ages, designed to build skills, confidence, and fun. For our youngest learners, the Toddler Summer Camp provides outdoor play and creative projects. Lower and middle school students can choose from camps like Cooking, Environmental Science, Flag Football, Squash, and Dungeons & Dragons, each fostering teamwork and leadership. High schoolers have specialized options too. Camps run mostly in June and July, with detailed schedules and registration available through our summer camp programs. Please note camps pause on June 19th for Juneteenth.

Families can choose from both full-day and part-day child care options in our Early Education programs. For toddlers (18-36 months), sessions range from 2 to 5 days a week, typically mornings from 8:30 to 11:15 a.m. Early Childhood children (ages 3-5) have half-day options (8:00 to 11:30 a.m.) and full-day programs (8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) available Monday through Friday. Full-day programs run 5 days a week, while part-day options vary by age and schedule needs. Additionally, after school care is available each day until 5:30 p.m., providing extended support for your family’s routine and your child’s growth. Learn more about our Early Childhood Program.

Children can start our Preschool (Early Childhood Program) when they are 3 years old by September 1st of the year they begin. If your child is close to this date, we’ll invite you for an interview to assess readiness. All preschoolers must be fully toilet trained and able to use the bathroom independently — pull-ups aren’t allowed. Our program offers flexible schedules with half-day and full-day options to fit your family’s needs. Learn more about our Early Childhood Program.

Children need to be five years old by September 1st of the year they start Kindergarten. If your child’s birthday is close to this date, our Kindergarten teachers will assess their readiness to ensure they’re prepared. This age guideline helps us create a supportive and engaging learning environment where every child can thrive. For more details on our Kindergarten experience and curriculum, feel free to explore our Kindergarten program.

Scheduling a shadow day is a wonderful way for your child to experience life at Nardin and connect with current students.

For Lower School (Grades K-4):
- Students have a half-day shadow visit focused on classroom observation.

For Middle School (Grades 5-8):
- Students participate in a full-day shadow visit.
- They also have the opportunity to take an entrance assessment on the same day to help determine readiness.

How to schedule for Lower and Middle School:
- Contact the Admissions Office at admissions@nardin.org
- Or use the Admissions Progress tab in your child’s Blackbaud account to sign up.

For High School:
- Shadow days allow prospective students to attend classes and meet teachers.
- Reach out via admissions@nardin.org to arrange a visit or use the Admissions Progress tab in your child’s Blackbaud account to sign up.

We look forward to welcoming your child and showing what makes Nardin special!

Nardin Academy serves children from 18 months through Grade 12, with programs tailored to each stage:

• Montessori (Toddler to Grade 3): Ages 18 months to about 8 years, nurturing independence and hands-on learning in a calm, prepared environment. Early childhood programs begin at age 3.
• Lower School (Kindergarten to Grade 4): For children 5 years and older, focusing on personalized attention, foundational academics, and joyful growth.
• Middle School (Grades 5-8): Supporting ages roughly 10 to 14 with leadership, curiosity, and independence.
• High School (Grades 9-12): An all-girls college-prep program for ages 14-18, offering a challenging curriculum that empowers young women to lead. The application deadline for incoming freshmen is mid-December (date varies each year), while applications for other grades are accepted on a rolling basis.

Learn more about each stage and how to apply through our admissions pages.

Admissions deadlines vary by program and grade level, but here’s what you need to know:

• Montessori, Lower School and Middle School: Admissions are rolling, but space may be limited after March 1st. Early applications are encouraged to secure placement.
• High School: Applications follow the Catholic high school timeline, with entrance exams in November and decisions typically by January.
• Returning Families: The $500 deposit is due by March 31st. There is no longer a Continuous Enrollment Agreement. Missing the deposit deadline may result in a non-refundable deposit and possible tuition responsibility. Extensions can be requested by contacting enrollment@nardin.org by March 31st.

We recommend starting early and reaching out if you need more time or assistance.

There is a non-refundable application fee of $50 required for all applicants to be considered for enrollment at Nardin Academy, including Montessori, Lower and Middle School, and High School programs. This fee helps cover the processing of your application and is a standard part of the admissions process. You can start your application online through our parent portal. To create an account in our enrollment management system, please complete an inquiry form. This is also where the admissions checklist is found, including the link to schedule a shadow day.

For more details, please visit the Montessori admissions, Lower and Middle School admissions, or High School admissions pages.

To apply at Nardin Academy, families should:

• Complete the online application through our parent portal, Blackbaud.
• Submit required documents such as transcripts and letters of recommendation, which you can manage easily via your Blackbaud Admissions Checklist.
• For Lower and Middle School applicants, include teacher evaluations and participate in a student readiness assessment.
• High School applicants applying for 9th grade must also complete the Catholic High Schools of WNY application and take the entrance exam.
• For younger children in Montessori or Kindergarten, submit any applicable teacher recommendations and complete readiness steps.

Please note, if you miss the March 31st deadline or decide not to return after that date, your deposit becomes non-refundable and you may owe tuition for the next year.

You can start your application or learn more about the process by visiting our Admissions Process page.

New students at Nardin Academy do need to take a placement test or academic evaluation tailored to their age and grade level. For Lower and Middle School (Grades K-8), Kindergarten students complete a readiness assessment, lower school students (1 - 4) also take a readiness assessment during their shadow day experience, while middle school students participate in a readiness assessment during their shadow day to determine academic placement. High School applicants take an entrance exam as part of the application process, with optional review courses available to prepare. If you’re unsure about your application by March 31st, you can request an extension by contacting enrollment@nardin.org with no penalty. These evaluations help us place students in classes that match their skills and support their success. Learn more about the Lower and Middle School admissions and High School admissions.

Admissions decisions for high school applicants are typically released in January, provided your application is complete by December 2025. A complete application includes:
- The Catholic High Schools WNY application with Nardin as your first choice
- A completed Nardin Application Checklist
- A Shadow Day experience
- Completion of the Entrance Exam
- Tuition Assistance application, if applicable

After January 22, watch your email for enrollment instructions to officially join us as a Gator! For details, visit our high school admissions page.

Lower and Middle School admissions are rolling, and applications are reviewed as they are completed.

Currently, siblings of enrolled students do not receive priority in admissions. Every applicant is considered individually to ensure a fair and mission-appropriate selection process. We encourage families to apply early to secure placement and avoid fees, and to complete all requirements, including assessments and recommendations, to strengthen their child’s candidacy. For details on admissions steps and timelines across all stages—from Montessori through high school—please explore our admissions process. If you have specific questions, our admissions team is happy to assist you.

To confirm your child's enrollment, we require a signed Continuous Enrollment Agreement and a $500 deposit per child due by March 31st. This deposit secures your child’s spot for the next school year. Once signed, re-enrollment becomes an easy opt-out process, guaranteeing placement until graduation. If you decide not to return, please notify us in writing by March 31st to avoid losing your deposit. For details, you can review the Continuous Enrollment process.

During registration and orientation, parents can expect a welcoming, supportive experience tailored to each stage of their child’s journey. For all ages, we guide you through submitting applications, required documents, and any assessments. You’ll learn about school policies, dress codes, and health requirements. At orientation, families meet teachers and staff, explore classrooms, and get familiar with daily routines and community values.

Key points for parents:

• Preschool/Montessori: Focus on independence, daily routines, and a nurturing environment.
• Lower School & Middle School: Emphasis on academic programs, student support, and community involvement.
• High School: Overview of academic expectations, counseling services, and traditions like wINTERMISSION and the House System.

We encourage families to apply early to secure placement and avoid fees. Scheduling a visit or tour is also recommended to experience the community firsthand and connect with our admissions team for personalized support. Learn more about our admissions process and how to prepare for your visit.

We offer need-based tuition assistance for families from Early Childhood (5 years), Traditional Kindergarten through High School to help make a Nardin Academy education affordable. Assistance adjusts tuition based on factors like income, assets, and family size. While full tuition awards are not given, we share in the investment with you. Funding comes from our Annual Fund, Endowment, and other activities. Families must apply each year, as financial situations can change.

For details on applying and available scholarships, please visit our Tuition Assistance and Scholarships page or contact Kerri Blake, Director of Finance & Tuition Assistance.

While Nardin does not accept school vouchers, we offer several tuition support options to help make a Nardin education accessible.

Need-based tuition assistance is available for families in Montessori Capstone and in Kindergarten (traditional) through Grade 12. Eligibility is determined through a confidential, third-party review process designed to provide clarity and support in planning.

Merit-based awards recognize high school students for academic achievement and other qualifications and are applied directly toward tuition.

Scholarships are available at select grade levels. Montessori, Lower School, and Middle School families may qualify for the Bison Scholarship, and additional high school scholarship opportunities may be available based on eligibility.

We also offer faculty tuition discounts for eligible full-time faculty and staff, as well as flexible payment plans, including pay-in-full (with a 2% discount) or 4-month and 8-month options beginning July 1. Learn more about tuition and assistance here.

Tuition at Nardin Academy for the 2025-26 school year varies by program and grade level:

Montessori Program:
- Toddler (2-day): $6,100
- Toddler (3-day): $9,150
- Toddler (4-day): $12,200
- Toddler (5-day): $15,250
- 3 Half Days: $7,780
- 5 Half Days: $12,460
- 5 Full Days Montessori: $18,380

Elementary (K-4): $18,030
Middle School (5-8): $18,840
High School (9-12): $20,010

Additional fees include activity/tech fees ($200-$875), athletic fees ($110-$425), and a $25 Parent Association fee. For the 2026-27 school year, updated tuition rates are available—families can contact the admissions office for the most current information. Tuition assistance options are also available to help make a Nardin education affordable. Learn more about tuition and assistance here.

Tuition covers your child’s education from toddler through high school, including core academic programs tailored to each stage. In addition to base tuition, there are annual fees for activities, technology, and athletics that support a rich school experience. For example, technology and activity fees vary by grade, and athletic fees depend on the program level. We also offer tuition assistance to help families manage costs based on financial need, making a quality education more accessible. You can find detailed tuition rates and fees for all programs in our tuition overview.

Additional fees beyond tuition include annual charges such as the Nardin Academy Parent Association fee ($25) and various Activity/Tech Fees depending on grade level, ranging from $200 for Montessori to $875 for 12th grade. There are also Athletic Fees that vary by program, typically between $110 and $425. Additionally, families are responsible for purchasing uniforms, which are not included in tuition or fees. These charges support technology, activities, athletics, and school uniforms that enrich your child’s experience. For details on tuition and fees, please see our Tuition & Aid information.

Families concerned about affordability can apply for need-based tuition assistance, which adjusts tuition based on income, assets, family size, and expenses. While full tuition awards are not given, we share the investment with you through funds from donors, endowment, and other activities. Assistance is available from Early Childhood (5 years old) through High School, and many families with varied financial situations qualify. Applications are submitted annually and evaluated by a third party to recommend awards. For details on applying and available scholarships, please explore our Tuition Assistance program.

Nardin Academy does not offer automatic sibling discounts. However, we provide need-based Tuition Assistance to help families manage tuition costs across all programs—from Montessori through High School. This assistance adjusts tuition based on your family’s financial situation and is supported by our Annual Fund and endowment. Our Business Office works closely with families to consider various factors when planning tuition and financial arrangements, ensuring we support families in making a Nardin education accessible and manageable. To apply, families must submit a separate Tuition Assistance application each year. For details on eligibility and the application process, please visit our Tuition Assistance program or contact Kerri Blake, Director of Finance and Tuition Assistance.

Scholarships are available at select grade levels. For families in Montessori, Lower School, and Middle School, support is provided through the Bison Scholarship. High school scholarship opportunities may be available based on eligibility criteria. We also provide need-based tuition assistance to help make education more affordable. To explore options and apply, families can learn more about our Tuition Assistance and Scholarships.

Yes, Nardin offers flexible payment plans.

Families may choose to pay tuition in full or select a 4-month or 8-month payment plan. Payments begin July 1, and families who pay in full receive a 2% tuition discount.

Tuition is due annually, with a $500 deposit required per child to secure enrollment. For current families, re-enrollment begins on March 1 each year, with detailed information provided in February by the Admissions Team and the President. Families not applying for financial aid must submit their $500 deposit by March 31, 2026, while families receiving financial assistance have until April 15 to submit their deposit. Tuition payments are managed through an online system linked to your family’s Blackbaud account, making it easy to pay and track. For more details on deposits, payment deadlines, and managing your tuition account, please review our Continuous Enrollment and Tuition information.

Nardin Academy does not report aggregate SAT scores due to the widespread Test Optional Policy among colleges. However, our high school consistently outperforms Western New York, state, and national averages on SAT, ACT, and Advanced Placement exams. We offer a rigorous, supportive academic environment with over 20 AP courses and personalized college counseling to prepare every student for success beyond high school. Learn more about our college counseling program and academic offerings.

New students at Nardin Academy are welcomed into a community that values academic readiness and positive behavior at every level.

Preschool & Kindergarten: We emphasize independence, confidence, and social-emotional growth, encouraging children to take responsibility for simple tasks and engage kindly with others.

Lower & Middle School: Students are expected to meet academic standards in reading, math, science, and social studies while demonstrating respect, kindness, and responsibility. Support services are available for those with documented needs. Please note, repeating a grade is not an option; students who do not meet academic requirements must attend summer school to continue at Nardin.

High School: New students should be prepared for a rigorous college-prep curriculum, including core subjects and electives. We expect integrity, respect, and active participation in our faith and service traditions. Our dress code promotes professionalism and community spirit.

For more details, families can explore our admissions process, academic programs, and student handbook.

At Nardin, students in grades 4 through 12 are provided with Chromebooks as part of our Chromebook Program, which gradually introduces device use and allows students to take them home. Younger students typically use school-provided technology during the day, while upper grades have access to Chromebooks for learning both in and out of school. Families can feel confident that technology tools support learning at every stage. To learn more about our technology approach and resources, you can explore our Technology program.

At Nardin Academy, we use a variety of online learning tools and educational apps across all grade levels to support creativity, collaboration, and hands-on learning. Students engage with Google for Education for collaborative content creation and sharing, with teachers providing structured guidance and feedback. Younger students use apps like WeVideo to build critical thinking and communication skills through teacher-supported projects, Vernier Probes for science and math experiments where they collect and analyze data, and Scratch/Codebender to introduce coding basics with teacher scaffolding. Starting in grade 4, students participate in a 1-1 Chromebook program and use Schoology to access homework, practice, and assessments, all supported by ongoing teacher feedback. Additionally, tools like Tinkercad for 3D design and Z-space virtual reality enrich learning by making subjects like science and math interactive and engaging. Our educators thoughtfully integrate these platforms to help students collaborate, explore real-world problems, and develop skills needed to thrive in a connected, tech-savvy world.

Learn more about our technology approach and how it supports your child’s learning journey.

Nardin Academy offers a rich, in-person learning experience designed to maximize collaboration, mentorship, and real-time discussion. While there are no fully online or hybrid classes for high school students, technology supports learning through tools like Chromebooks, Schoology for homework and assessments, and video conferencing for global connections. In select cases, students may pursue approved online courses to explore specialized subjects or advance their studies, but these are intended to complement—not replace—the in-person classroom experience. Families can learn more about our technology resources and high school schedule for details on how we support flexible, interactive learning.

Teachers thoughtfully integrate technology like videos and interactive tools to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences across all grade levels. In early childhood and elementary grades, digital tools support literacy and hands-on activities, while interactive whiteboards and flexible classroom designs foster both collaborative and independent learning. Middle and high school students use platforms such as Google for Education to share and create content anytime, and video conferencing connects them with experts worldwide. Apps like WeVideo, Vernier Probes, and coding tools encourage creativity, innovation, and critical thinking in science, math, and computer science. Each year, we review our technology tools and practices to ensure they remain developmentally appropriate, mission-aligned, and effective in supporting student growth. This technology-rich environment empowers students to collaborate, explore real-world challenges, and strengthen essential skills, preparing them to thrive in an increasingly connected world. Learn more about our technology integration and how it enhances student growth.

At every stage, we prioritize online safety through education and skill-building. In our Lower and Middle Schools, students develop digital literacy and citizenship, learning how to create a positive digital footprint and make safe choices online. Our Koessler Innovation and Technology Center offers courses focused on research skills, evaluating credible sources, and responsible online behavior. High School students deepen their understanding of technology’s impact and ethics through computer science classes and guided explorations. Additionally, we have clear acceptable use policies that students and families review and sign, ensuring everyone understands expectations. Our Tech Team actively monitors online activity using software and filters to maintain a safe digital environment. We also partner closely with families to support students and encourage responsible decision-making, with disciplinary measures in place when necessary. Learn more about our technology program and innovation center.

At every stage, the school teaches and supports responsible technology use through age-appropriate digital literacy and citizenship programs. In Lower and Middle School, the Innovation and Technology Center offers courses focused on research skills, digital citizenship, and creating a positive digital footprint. Students learn to balance their online behavior with real-world community values. Technology tools like Chromebooks and collaborative platforms are thoughtfully integrated across all grades to empower learning while encouraging critical thinking and ethical use. This approach prepares students to navigate an evolving digital world confidently and responsibly. Learn more about our technology programs and the Innovation Center.