The Knox School

St. James
New York
United States

Overview

THE KNOX SCHOOL is a progressive, co-educational, independent, college preparatory boarding and day school located on 40 acres of serene waterfront property along the North Shore of Long Island, New York. Just minutes from Manhattan, our small yet diverse student body represents more than 15 countries, and attracts students from local Long Island communities, the New York tri-state area, and across the U.S. Founded in 1904, The Knox School is Long Island’s oldest established private school. Our inclusive environment serves grades 6-12 and Post Graduate, providing students with a broad world perspective and a wide range of skills to prepare them for the next phase of their journeys. At Knox everyone knows your name and each student’s potential is unlocked and maximized because of the boundless experiences a Knox education provides. We are proud of our 100% acceptance to top four year universities. Whether you are an aspiring engineer or equestrian, artist or architect, performer or physicist, a Knox education unlocks every student’s potential and prepares them for success after high school. In addition to superior college preparatory academics, Knox provides an integrative co-curricular campus experience. Students are supported as they explore interest-driven clubs, hands-on service learning, multidisciplinary opportunities in the Visual & Performing Arts, and a nationally-competitive Athletics program. Knox’s encouraging community gives students confidence to take risks and to strive for excellence.

Academics

Summary: Knox students enjoy experiences of discovery and learning that will prepare them for life in college and beyond. Our team of administrators and educators are driven by a collective vision and desire to inspire in each student a lifelong love of learning, and to nurture and celebrate each individual’s strengths and talents. Our standards and expectations of our students align with or exceed the rigor of state and national education standards. We offer a wide variety of AP courses and dual enrollment opportunities to earn college credit, electives that are relevant to the needs and interests of our student body, a lively performing arts program taught by industry professionals, and extensive visual art offerings with portfolio development supported by accomplished artists.

Department Director Donna Pergola

Student/Teacher Ratio: 6:1

Average Class Size: 12

Summer Programs: Not Offered

Full Time Teachers: 26

Number of AP Courses Offered: 19

Teachers Holding Advanced Degrees: 83%

Number of IB Courses Offered: 0

Noteworthy Information:
34% of Knox faculty have college teaching experience. Students can earn up to 32 college credits in the arts, sciences, and humanities through dual enrollment courses taught by Knox faculty who are accredited by a local college and university.

Learning Support

  • Peer Tutoring
  • Study Skills Assistance

English

  • Creative Writing
  • Honors
  • Literature
  • Composition
  • AP English Language
  • AP English Literature
  • American Literature

History

  • Honors
  • United States History
  • World History

Foreign Languages

  • Chinese-Mandarin
  • French
  • Spanish
  • English as a Second Language

Religion / Philosophy

  • Ethics
  • Philosophy

Humanities / Social Sciences

  • Economics
  • Psychology

Sciences

  • Anatomy
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Earth Science
  • Environmental Science
  • Health
  • Marine Biology
  • Physical Science
  • Physics
  • Physiology
  • Life Science
  • Computer Science
  • Robotics
  • Psychology

Math

  • Algebra
  • Calculus
  • Geometry
  • Honors Math
  • Statistics
  • Trigonometry
  • Pre-Calculus
  • Pre-Algebra

Computer Studies

  • Multimedia
  • Computer Programming
  • Computer Science
  • Robotics
  • Graphic Design
  • Computer Engineering
  • Digital Media

Music

  • Choral Music
  • Individual Instructions
  • Music History
  • Music Theory

Performing / Visual Arts

  • Acting
  • Ceramics
  • Design
  • Drawing
  • Film and Video
  • Graphic Design
  • Painting
  • Photography
  • Portfolio
  • Pottery
  • Printmaking
  • Publications
  • Stagecraft
  • Studio Art
  • Theater Arts
  • 3-D Art
  • Digital Imaging
  • Multimedia
  • Illustration

Special Programs

  • Community Service
  • Independent Study
  • Leadership
  • Physical Education
  • Robotics
  • Student Council
  • Science Research
  • Digital Design
  • Maker Space

Distinctive or New Programs

Dual Enrollment Program: Taught by our own qualified Knox faculty, in coordination with local colleges and universities, qualified students may take college courses at The Knox School during their regular school hours, while simultaneously working toward high school graduation.

Campus Life

Dorm Life

Number of Dorms: 4

Average Students Per Dorm: 25

Number of Girls Dorms: 2

Number of Boys Dorms: 2

Dorm Amenities

  • Laundry Facilities
  • Lounge
  • Vending Machines
  • Wireless Internet
  • Full Kitchen
  • Refrigerator

Other Dorm Amenities

Student Life

Boarding and Day students have the opportunity to find and pursue their interests in a safe, family atmosphere. Whether celebrating birthdays and student achievements in all-school morning meetings, working together to benefit the local community through service learning projects, participating in one of many student-driven clubs and organizations, or cheering on their teammates for the next Falcons win, we strive to build a culture of community that permeates the student body. Each of the residential houses has one or more faculty members, many of whom live with their families. Our dorm parents serve in the best tradition of "In Loco Parentis," as they look after the academic and social/emotional development of each student. Our residential faculty are truly special people who do not approach dorm life as merely a job; rather, they know how important their role is in the everyday life of a young person at Knox. They are committed—in unique and individual ways—to ensuring that the students in their care feel valued, safe, and a part of something greater than themselves.

Facilities

  • Basketball Court
  • Fitness Center
  • Indoor Basketball Court
  • Pool
  • Technology Center
  • Volleyball Court
  • Softball Diamond
  • Soccer Field
  • Tennis Courts
  • Dance Studio
  • Weight Room
  • Athletic Fields
  • Waterfront
  • Equestrian Facilities
  • Cross Country Trails
  • Rowing Facility

Other Facilities

Clubs & Organizations

  • Amnesty International
  • Community Service
  • Diversity Club
  • Future Business Leaders of America
  • Honor Council
  • International Club
  • Literary Magazine
  • Model UN
  • National Honor Society
  • Peer Tutoring
  • Science Bowl
  • Student Government
  • Student Publications
  • Yearbook
  • Yoga Club
  • Robotics
  • GSA

Arts & Athletics

Summary: Every year, The Knox School presents a Fall Play and a Spring Musical, as well as performances in school assemblies and community events. We have an annual Talent Show, music recitals, coffeehouse "open mic" nights, and end of year performances at multiple ceremonies. As part of our Arts curriculum, we offer Theatre and Stagecraft classes, Choir and Music History, as well as middle school Performing Arts. The Athletics Program at The Knox School is an integral part of our students' educational experience. Staying true to the school's core values, the Athletics Department promotes the total development of our student-athletes. Our competitive and interscholastic sports emphasize trust, teamwork, sportsmanship and respect, creating a safe and enjoyable environment for all. As young people face the physical and emotional challenges in athletics, they develop personal values and learn to take intelligent risks. An active lifestyle is fundamental to a student's well being, and the Knox Athletic Department allows students a chance to balance their academics with healthy activity. This helps students mature in several ways, learning leadership skills, time management, and cooperation.

Arts Department Director: Karyn Cernera Bush

Athletics Department Director: Liam Power

Notable Achievements: 100% high school participation in the arts and athletics. Artists exhibit work both on campus and in the community. 3 League Championships, 2 State Championships, 8 World Records, 4 athletes in the Olympic Development Program, Long Island Coach of the Year

Arts

  • Acting
  • Ceramics
  • Design
  • Drawing
  • Film and Video
  • Graphic Design
  • Painting
  • Photography
  • Portfolio
  • Pottery
  • Printmaking
  • Publications
  • Stagecraft
  • Studio Art
  • Theater Arts
  • 3-D Art
  • Digital Imaging
  • Multimedia
  • Illustration

Interscholastic Sports

  • Badminton
  • Basketball
  • Crew
  • Cross Country Running
  • Equestrian
  • Fencing
  • Soccer
  • Volleyball

Recreational Sports

  • Equestrian
  • Kayaking
  • Swimming
  • Tennis
  • Weight Lifting
  • Yoga
  • Fitness
  • Outdoor Activities

Graduates

Summary: The Knox College Counseling Experience is a program designed by Knox leaders with decades of experience. We teach students to take control of the college application process and give parents peace of mind knowing that their children will be guided by experts every step of the way. Key highlights of The Knox College Counseling Experience: Our program begins in 9th Grade and provides individualized, step-by-step guidance from our experienced College Planning Team; One-on-one counseling with the Dean of Academics will help students select classes that build the most compelling transcripts, brag sheets, and resumes; College visits, virtual information sessions, and talks with Knox alumni aid students in planning for their post-secondary journey; Our one-of-a-kind Graduate Seminar class, designed by a college professor, is required for all seniors. This course not only completes the college application process, but provides fundamental knowledge of the freshman year college experience, and ensures that Knox graduates enter college with a competitive advantage over their peers from other high schools

College Information

Precentage of graduates who attend college: 100%

Middle Percentile of SAT Scores Reading Math Writing
25th percentile
75th percentile

College attended in the past 5 years by our graduates:

Pratt Institute:
Stevens Institute of Technology:
Rochester Institute of Technology:
The University of Edinburgh:
University of Southern California:
Columbia University's Barnard College:
Universidad Europea de Madrid:
Trinity College:
University of Buffalo:
Parsons School of Design:
University of Wisconsin:
University of Washington:
University of Texas-Austin:
University of San Diego:
University of Rochester:
University of Michigan:
University of Miami:
University of Massachusetts-Amherst:
University of Indiana:
University of Illinois:
University of Georgia:
University of Delaware:
University of Connecticut:
University of California - Los Angeles:
University of Amsterdam:
Syracuse University:
Stony Brook University:
Stanford University:
Savannah College of Art and Design:
Rutgers University:
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute:
Penn State University:
Ohio State University:
Northeastern University:
New York University:
Michigan State University:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology:
Louisiana State University:
Kingston University:
Glion University:
George Washington University:
Florida State University:
Fashion Institute of Technology:
Esic Business School:
Drexel University:
Cornell University:
Carnegie Mellon University:
Boston University:
Binghamton University:

Notable Alumni

Millie Chan

Class of 1987

Product Designer, Business Owner and CEO

Dr. Matthew Rosen

Class of 1988

Physicist

Miles Chamley-Watson

Class of 2008

U.S. Olympian in Fencing (2012, 2016); 3-time First Team All-American

Dr. Benjamin Cilento

Class of 1985

Noted Plastic & Reconstructed Surgeon

Michael Schenker

Class of 1984

Television Producer

Phebe T. Phillips Byrne

Class of 1968

Noted Equestrian; winner National Horse of the Year 1990

Tim Eriksen

Class of 1984

Ethnomusicologist, Singer, Songwriter

Lisa Gay Hamilton

Class of 1981

Broadway, Film & TV Actor

Chris Strompolos

Class of 1989

Film Producer

Quotes From Alumni

“I will carry this last chapter of my life in my heart always. Thank you to the teachers who taught me so much more than just lessons in the curriculum. I learned about my passions, my goals, and the makings of my soul. Thank you all for giving me such an amazing high school experience!”
-Vasia Tassiopoulos, Class of 2022,
“I came to Knox as a seventh grader and received amazing support to build my English skills. The Knox administrators and staff truly care about every student’s success and are highly qualified to deliver the best education that is possible. My goal was to get into my dream school – New York University – and the education I received at Knox helped me achieve an early decision to NYU. My parents want to give a big thanks to Knox for the invaluable education, and it has been my pleasure to be a Knox student!”
-Simon Ju, Class of 2021,
“Having been in such a small community at The Knox School, I was able to focus on myself and grow as a person in a supportive environment. I have the confidence to approach my next four years at Penn State University.”
-Emily Ahmed, Class of 2020,
“The Knox School helped me reach goals that I never thought were possible. Through support for my artistic passions, Knox helped me to become accepted to my dream college.”
-Cytheria Shen, Class of 2020,
“My time at Knox was very transformative. Through the freedom and liberties the school gives its students to cultivate new interests, and through the support of faculty and administration to pursue new opportunities, I was able to realize my true leadership potential and discover my strengths.”
-Kyle Persaud, Class of 2018,
“Everything we learn here, from the classwork in math, science and English, to the sports and the dorm life, it was all meant to prepare us to be successful in life. We were taught every day not to be afraid to open the biggest doors that life throws into our paths. To be a "Knoxie" means to be prepared to impact this world in a way that matters. This was taught not only by faculty and administrators but by students as well. Peers who support each other, no matter their color, religion, ethnicity, or interests. You guys are my family and family is for life.”
-Mateja Markovic, Class of 2020,
“I’m forever grateful to Knox for giving me endless opportunities to create my own story, and to determine how I would spend my time here. I was given the opportunity to play my favorite sport with people from all across the world. I was able to take mentally taxing classes that challenged me, and most of all I was given the chance to better myself everyday and chase the dreams I set for myself. Nothing at Knox is given; instead, everyone is shown an opportunity to do something, and it is up to each individual to make that decision for themselves. When I was still at public school, I felt that I had hit my ceiling in regards to how much more I could learn and better my education. When I came to Knox, it felt like the ceiling was lifted and I felt almost overwhelmed with how much room I had to grow. My teachers made me truly believe that I was capable of going above and beyond my highest expectations. Not only did they make me feel this way, but they also came to every class prepared to do their best to bring me to that level.”
-Trevor Hubbard, Class of 2021,
“Through my years at Knox, I was challenged and loved. The individuality of the school is like no other. I was treated like family, and whenever I needed help someone was always there to give me support. Knox taught me confidence, value and respect for myself. At Knox, I was encouraged to find myself and to be proud of who I am. The students and faculty were my family and we were all there for each other. The admin helped me through a rough patch in my academics and gave me the individualized help I needed. Many kids in public school fall unnoticed, but that doesn’t happen at Knox. The faculty noticed I was struggling in my most important year and helped me right away to better my grades. My dream was to attend a well known university in Washington D.C. and Knox made that possible. Knox prepared me for college immensely from the classes to being responsible for everything I do. The memories I made at Knox are permanently engraved in my heart.”
-Madison Licalzi, Class of 2018,
“My time at Knox was full of amazing memories that will stay with me forever. The faculty and staff were all so supportive and incredible to work with. I genuinely enjoyed coming to school every day because the environment was so positive. Knox provided me with opportunities to explore areas I never thought I would, especially in the Sciences and STEM. The discipline coming from the teachers and administration definitely prepared for the rigors of college. Knox has taught me responsibility and scholarship, which has, without a doubt, helped me to succeed at university.”
-Isabella Benrubi, Class of 2018,
“Attending The Knox School played a key role in helping me achieving my goal of earning acceptance into my dream school. My Knox experience has been about taking advantage of the many opportunities available here. The rigorous academics, sports and arts programs helped me to build a solid, well-rounded foundation. Students here are encouraged to take risks, get involved and explore interests they may have never considered. While at Knox, I performed in school plays, joined sports such as basketball, tennis, and soccer, served in student government and received nominations to several leadership programs. The diverse student body introduced me to different ideas and broadened my views. The small class sizes allowed me to stand out to strengthen my confidence. Knox taught me life skills, life lessons and set me up for continued success, for which I will always be grateful.”
-Colby Palmer, Class of 2019,
“The academics were challenging and strict and prepared me for the work I am facing now in college. Students receive a lot of encouragement at Knox from everyone - the teachers, administrators, coaches and from the other students. I learned how to manage my time and balance academics and athletics so I could be successful in both. At Knox, the entire community is like a family. I was very far away from home, but my parents and I never worried because Knox was like my second home. I am thankful that I had the opportunity of a lifetime at The Knox School and it will be a part of my life forever.”
-Omar El Sheikh, Class of 2017,
“During these four years, Knox’s education helped me develop great academics, excellent sport skills, and most importantly, a positive character and personality. The specialties in Knox are varied activities and diverse student body. This offers students opportunities to find out what their real passions are and make friendships with people who share the same interests in this warm, welcoming community. I believe I am very well prepared by Knox for college life. I am grateful for everything I learned at Knox and I will hold the precious memories I made on this beautiful campus forever.”
-Wang Jing Han, Class of 2019,
“Knox bestowed independence on me that I would not have learned elsewhere. Living in intentional communities created with the student’s growth and development at the center, is one Knox’s most cherished characteristics. With a college campus feel, Knox ensures that students are immersed in an educational world where learning is central to all activities. It’s a unique setting that promotes a high educational experience, friendship, and trust. I will forever hold my Home beside the Shore near to my heart, and will forever be grateful for the passionate, supportive, and resourceful people I met along the way.”
-Silvia Hernandez-Benito, Class of 2018,
“Knox prepared me for my college education well by enabling me to be familiar with the American education system and better understand the culture. During college, especially at the beginning, I found that it was easier for me than other international students to understand what the professors asked for and what guidelines I should follow when completing assignments. Knox has a similar course structure and uses syllabi as well. This created a huge advantage for me and my GPA in college was more than satisfying. As for the cultural immersion aspect, Knox gave me the opportunity to make friends from different backgrounds. I am still in touch with my good friends from Knox. Similarly in college, I was not afraid to speak up and chat with other fellow students from all over the globe because I had learned that in American culture, people are encouraged to express their feelings. All in all, my experience at Knox helped me be a step ahead of others for college study and campus engagement. Knox was a great place to study and grow. Make your memories here and you will always cherish them.”
-Liu Jinkai, Class of 2013,
“I was very privileged to have gone to Knox where the teachers became family and helped you through almost anything. The close knit relationship between faculty and students is amazingly strong at Knox. Being at Knox, family was what I appreciated the most. I was not just another face in the crowd, and every student’s opinion did matter. I got to experience life from a safe vantage point and so greatly appreciated all that Knox could do for me in every aspect. I will never forget my years at Knox. Memories were created and impressions made and I wouldn't take back a single thing. Four years was a tiny period of time in one’s lifetime, but however tiny it was, my time at Knox made a lasting impression on my life forever.”
-Gong Hongyi, Class of 2013,

Interested in The Knox School?

Vital Information

Student Body Type: Coed

Total Boarding: 66

Total Day: 40

Total Enrollment: 106

Boys: 51

Girls: 55

Boarding Grades Offered: 6-12

Day Grades Offered: 6-12

School Type: Middle, High School, Post-grad

Dress Code: Uniform

Applications Accepted: SAO

Application Deadline: Rolling

Tuition & Financial Aid

7-Day Boarding: $60,000

5-Day Boarding: $50,000

Day Tuition Fee: $27,000

Need-Based Aid: Offered

Payment Plans: Offered

Students Receiving Aid: 35%

Average Awarded: $23,290

School Finances

Merit Scholarships: Not Offered

Students Receiving Merit Scholarships: %

Average Merit Scholarship: $

Current Endowment Amount: $1,500,000

Contact

541 Long Beach Road

St. James, New York United States

631 686 1600 x414

Director of Admissions: Cindy Simkus

Admissions Phone: 631 686 1600 x414

Fax: 631 686 1653

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://www.knoxschool.org

Nearby Schools

School Events

Spring Open House:

Saturday Apr 29 2023 - Saturday Apr 29 2023

10:00:00am - 01:00:00pm

Join us on our beautiful Long Island campus for our annual Spring Open House! Meet with student ambassadors, faculty, and members of the leadership team, take a campus tour and learn about all the Knox programs that are designed with YOU in mind.

Admissions Information Session:

Wednesday Apr 19 2023 - Wednesday Apr 19 2023

07:00:00pm - 08:00:00pm

Join our live webinar and learn about The Knox School’s boundless programs designed with YOU in mind. Our friendly staff will present information about Knox’s rigorous College Preparatory Academics, Stress-Free College Counseling, Competitive Athletics, Dynamic Arts, and multicultural Student Life community. Guests will receive answers to any questions they may have about The Knox School or the application process.

Winter Open House:

Saturday Feb 04 2023 - Saturday Feb 04 2023

10:00:00am - 01:00:00pm

The Knox School is pleased to invite you to our beautiful, waterfront campus for our annual Winter Open House. Meet School leaders like the Head of School, Dean of Academics, and Director of Athletics, meet knowledg3able Student Ambassadors who will take you on a tour, and learn about our vibrant arts, student life, and campus programs designed with YOU in mind.

Admissions Information Session:

Wednesday Feb 15 2023 - Wednesday Feb 15 2023

07:00:00pm - 08:00:00pm

Join our live webinar and learn about The Knox School’s boundless programs designed with YOU in mind. Our friendly staff will present information about Knox’s rigorous College Preparatory Academics, Stress-Free College Counseling, Competitive Athletics, Dynamic Arts, and multicultural Student Life community. Guests will receive answers to any questions they may have about The Knox School or the application process.

Admissions Information Session:

Wednesday Jan 18 2023 - Wednesday Jan 18 2023

07:00:00pm - 08:00:00pm

Join our live webinar and learn about The Knox School’s boundless programs designed with YOU in mind. Our friendly staff will present information about Knox’s rigorous College Preparatory Academics, Stress-Free College Counseling, Competitive Athletics, Dynamic Arts, and multicultural Student Life community. Guests will receive answers to any questions they may have about The Knox School or the application process.

Admissions Information Session:

Wednesday Dec 07 2022 - Wednesday Dec 07 2022

07:00:00pm - 08:00:00pm

Join our live webinar and learn about The Knox School’s boundless programs designed with YOU in mind. Our friendly staff will present information about Knox’s rigorous College Preparatory Academics, Stress-Free College Counseling, Competitive Athletics, Dynamic Arts, and multicultural Student Life community. Guests will receive answers to any questions they may have about The Knox School or the application process.

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