Archmere Academy
General Information
Overview – Archmere Academy
Archmere Academy is a prestigious private, Catholic, college preparatory school located in Claymont, Delaware. Established in 1932 by Norbertine Fathers, the academy is built on the former estate of industrialist John J. Raskob and offers a rigorous, faith‑based education rooted in its motto Pietate et Scientia (“Faith and Knowledge”). The school educates students in grades 9–12 in a coeducational environment, balancing academic rigor, spiritual development, and community service.
With a student‑teacher ratio of approximately 10:1 and average class sizes around 15, Archmere fosters close student‑teacher partnerships. The campus has a collegiate feel and emphasizes holistic growth, developing empathetic leaders who are well-prepared for higher education. Its program includes a broad curriculum with many Advanced Placement (AP) courses, service-learning opportunities, and extracurricular activities in athletics, performing arts, and more. The school’s commitment to technology-infused learning and personalized instruction aims to challenge students academically while nurturing moral and personal growth.
Contact Information – Archmere Academy
Address: 3600 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE, 19703, United States
Phone Number: (302) 798‑6632
Email Address: Not publicly listed; interested parties typically reach out via the school’s admissions office
Fax: (302) 798‑7290
School Facts – Archmere Academy
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1932 |
| Motto (Latin) | Pietate et Scientia |
| Motto Translation | Faith and Knowledge |
| Type | Private, coeducational, college preparatory |
| Religious Affiliation | Roman Catholic, Norbertine |
| Grades | 9–12 |
| Accreditation | Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools |
| Mascot / Nickname | Great Auk / Auks |
| School Colors | Green and White |
| Enrollment | ~514 (2020–21 academic year) |
Archmere Academy Rankings (Country / Global)
| Ranking Category | Rank / Status |
|---|---|
| State (Delaware) – Private High Schools | Ranked #1 Catholic high school in Delaware |
| Private High School Academic Rating | Academics: A+ |
| Global / National Ranking | As a private high school, Archmere does not appear in global rankings; reputation is strongest regionally within Delaware and among U.S. college preparatory schools |
Archmere Academy Academics
Faculties / Departments
Archmere Academy does not organize its curriculum into traditional university faculties but its academic structure includes broad departments such as:
- English / Humanities
- Mathematics
- Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science)
- Social Studies / History
- Languages (Spanish, French, etc.)
- Religion / Theology
- Fine Arts (Visual Art, Music, Theater)
- Computer Science / Technology
- Physical Education
Courses and Programs / Majors
Students can choose from a rich set of courses and programs geared toward college preparation, including:
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses (Calculus AB & BC, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, U.S. History, World History, English)
- Electives in fine arts: 2D & 3D art, studio art, performing arts, music theory, songwriting
- Music program with performance ensembles (jazz ensemble, concert choir, Mastersingers)
- Technology-infused learning using laptops and iPads
- Required religion and theology courses each semester reflecting the school’s Catholic identity
Online Learning
Archmere Academy primarily operates as an in-person, on-campus high school for grades 9–12. While students use technology in blended learning environments, the school does not offer a fully virtual diploma program.
Average Test Scores (SAT, ACT, etc.)
| Test | Average Score at Archmere Academy |
|---|---|
| SAT | ~1320 |
| ACT | ~30 |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Archmere Academy reports a 100% graduation rate. Since it is a high school, retention rate is less commonly measured, but class continuity and four-year matriculation indicate strong student retention and successful academic progression.
Archmere Academy Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Incoming students typically have strong academic records. Average SAT is around 1320 and ACT is 30, suggesting successful applicants perform well on standardized tests.
Archmere Academy Acceptance Rate
| Year / Period | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Most recent / rolling admissions | Not publicly disclosed; rolling basis |
Application Requirements
The application process evaluates a student’s academic readiness, character, and alignment with the school’s values. Applicants submit recent transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay or statement. Reflection on community service, faith, and leadership is encouraged. The school seeks students who demonstrate academic capability as well as potential to contribute to the Archmere community.
Application Process
- Complete the online application.
- Submit academic transcripts.
- Provide standardized test scores if required.
- Submit letters of recommendation.
- Write and submit a personal essay.
- Attend an interview or campus shadow day.
- Complete financial aid forms if needed.
Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Deadline / Date | Detail |
|---|---|
| Open Admission / Rolling | Rolling admissions without a fixed deadline |
| Shadow Day Visits | Typically begin in the fall for prospective students |
Essay Prompt
Applicants are encouraged to write a personal statement reflecting their values, experiences, and goals. Reflection on faith, community, leadership, or family may be included, but specific prompts vary.
Archmere Academy Scholarships
Archmere offers a generous financial assistance program, with approximately 75% of families receiving aid. The school awards both merit-based and need-based scholarships, distributing over $3.3 million annually in financial aid and awards.
Archmere Academy Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost (per year) |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Approximately $34,100 |
| Average Financial Assistance | About $7,000 per year for many families |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Archmere Academy values diversity across race, gender identity, socioeconomic background, religion, language proficiency, physical and cognitive ability, and family structure. The school fosters a community where students can bring their authentic selves while developing academically, socially, and spiritually.
Low‑Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Archmere’s financial assistance program enhances access for low-income families, and the school embraces cognitive and physical diversity to ensure an inclusive and supportive environment.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Percentage |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~514 students (2020–21) |
| Student‑Teacher Ratio | ~10:1 |
| Students of Color | ~9% |
| Graduation Rate | 100% |
University Diversity
Archmere Academy emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion as core components of its mission. The school values multiple identities and actively builds programs and policies to support equity. The community participates in assessments to guide culturally responsive programming, bias training, and outreach to underrepresented families and faculty. Diversity and inclusion are integral to student life, ensuring every student experiences belonging and empowerment.
Average Earnings
As a high school, Archmere does not report earnings data. However, graduates are highly college-bound, supported by strong academics, AP courses, and 100% graduation. Alumni typically attend selective colleges, positioning them for successful careers and competitive earnings in adulthood.
Archmere Academy Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
Archmere has a robust team of 52 teachers supported by administrative staff and Norbertine clergy who provide spiritual leadership. The student-teacher ratio is about 10:1.
Faculty Profiles
Approximately 85% of faculty hold advanced degrees, many with years of teaching experience. Teachers guide AP courses, extracurriculars, service-learning, and mentor students in personal and spiritual growth, ensuring a rigorous and supportive academic environment.
Archmere Academy Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Archmere is a day school without on-campus housing. Students commute from Delaware and Pennsylvania. The campus has a collegiate-style layout with historic estate buildings supporting academics, arts, and student activities. Facilities support vibrant extracurricular engagement.
Transportation
The school’s location near the Pennsylvania–Delaware border allows easy commuting from surrounding areas. Students typically use public transportation, carpooling, or private transport. Campus design supports pedestrian access across academic and student life buildings.