St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School
General Information
About St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School is a premier independent Episcopal day school located in New York City, serving students from preschool through eighth grade. Founded with a mission to nurture intellectual curiosity, spiritual growth, and moral integrity, the school provides an inclusive environment that values diversity, respect, and community service. With a focus on academic excellence and character development, St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s offers a rigorous curriculum designed to challenge students while encouraging creativity and critical thinking.
The school is known for its small class sizes, individualized attention, and commitment to the holistic development of each child. Students benefit from a balanced educational experience that integrates traditional academics, visual and performing arts, physical education, and technology. The Episcopal foundation of the school emphasizes values such as compassion, leadership, and global citizenship, helping students become well-rounded individuals prepared for future success. St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s maintains a reputation for sending graduates to the most competitive secondary schools and nurturing lifelong learners who contribute positively to their communities.
Contact Information
Address: 619 West 114th Street, New York, NY 10025
Phone Number: (212) 932-1980
Email Address: admissions@sthildas.org
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1950 |
| School Type | Private Episcopal Day School |
| Motto | “Faith, Knowledge, and Service” |
| Grades | Nursery – Grade 8 |
| School Colors | Blue and Gold |
| Average Class Size | 15 Students |
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School Rankings
| Ranking Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| State Ranking (New York) | Top 30 Private K–8 Schools |
| National Ranking (U.S.) | Top 200 Private Elementary Schools |
| Academic Excellence | Rated A+ |
| Diversity and Inclusion | Rated A |
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School Academics
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School Faculties / Departments
- Early Childhood Education Department
- Lower School (Grades 1–4)
- Upper School (Grades 5–8)
- English and Literature Department
- Mathematics Department
- Science Department
- Social Studies and History Department
- Visual and Performing Arts Department
- World Languages Department
- Technology and Innovation Department
- Physical Education and Athletics Department
- Religious Studies Department
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School Courses and Programs / Majors
- English Language Arts and Creative Writing
- Mathematics (Advanced Algebra and Geometry)
- Science and STEM Exploration
- Social Studies and History
- Spanish and French Language Studies
- Art and Design
- Music and Choir Programs
- Computer Science and Robotics
- Physical Education and Health
- Leadership and Community Service Program
Online Learning
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School offers supplemental online learning opportunities to support its in-person instruction. The school utilizes digital platforms for homework submissions, research projects, and interactive learning experiences. During periods of remote or hybrid instruction, the faculty ensures a seamless transition with structured virtual classes and personalized feedback. Online enrichment programs in coding, writing, and world cultures are also available, allowing students to expand their academic interests beyond the traditional classroom environment.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| ERB (Comprehensive Testing Program) | 85th Percentile |
| ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) | 75th Percentile |
| SSAT (Secondary School Admission Test) | 70th Percentile |
Retention and Graduation Rates
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s maintains an exceptional student retention rate of over 97%, reflecting high family satisfaction and student engagement. Nearly all students continue to prestigious secondary schools across New York and the nation. The school’s commitment to academic rigor, social development, and individualized guidance ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of high school and beyond.
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As a K–8 independent school, St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s does not require standardized tests such as SAT or ACT for admission. However, applicants for upper elementary and middle school grades may submit prior standardized test results or complete in-house assessments. The admissions team evaluates students holistically, considering academic performance, teacher recommendations, and personal character.
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School Acceptance Rate
| Admission Type | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| General Enrollment | Approximately 25% |
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School Application Requirements
Admission to St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School is competitive and involves a comprehensive application process. Families must submit an online application form, prior school transcripts, teacher recommendations, and a personal parent statement. Younger applicants participate in playgroup sessions or developmental assessments, while older students attend interviews or academic evaluations. The admissions committee considers each applicant’s readiness, curiosity, and potential to contribute positively to the school community. Financial aid applications are reviewed separately to ensure equitable access for all qualified families.
Application Process
- Complete and submit the online application form
- Provide previous school records and recommendations
- Schedule student assessment or interview
- Attend parent meeting or campus tour
- Receive admissions decision notification
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | September 1 |
| Priority Application Deadline | December 1 |
| Financial Aid Deadline | January 15 |
| Decision Notification | March 10 |
| Enrollment Confirmation Due | April 1 |
Essay Prompt
Applicants for middle school grades may be asked to complete a short essay on topics such as “Describe a time when you learned something new about yourself” or “What does being part of a community mean to you?” Essays are designed to assess writing ability, creativity, and self-reflection.
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School Scholarships
The school offers need-based financial aid to eligible families, ensuring that qualified students from diverse backgrounds have access to its programs. Approximately 20% of the student body receives some level of financial assistance. Merit-based recognition may also be awarded for exceptional academic performance or leadership.
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Preschool | $28,000 per year |
| Lower School (Grades 1–4) | $42,000 per year |
| Upper School (Grades 5–8) | $45,000 per year |
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Enrollment Deposit | $2,000 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School embraces a diverse student population, with families representing multiple nationalities, cultural traditions, and faiths. The gender distribution is balanced, and the school actively fosters inclusion through community activities and educational programming. Diversity is reflected not only in ethnicity but also in perspectives, enhancing students’ understanding of the global community.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The school ensures accessibility through its financial aid program and inclusive learning support services. Trained specialists provide individualized learning plans and accommodations for students with disabilities or learning differences. This commitment aligns with the school’s Episcopal values of equity, empathy, and service to others.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | 350 |
| International Students | 10% |
| Student-to-Teacher Ratio | 7:1 |
University Diversity
Diversity is a cornerstone of St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s philosophy. Students and teachers engage in multicultural education, community service projects, and interfaith discussions that promote understanding and respect. The school celebrates diversity through annual events such as Global Day and Heritage Week, where students explore world cultures and traditions. This approach prepares students to thrive in diverse environments and encourages empathy and social awareness.
Average Earnings
While St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s does not track graduate earnings, its alumni often attend leading secondary schools and later pursue higher education at elite universities. Many former students go on to successful careers in education, medicine, business, and the arts. The foundational skills developed at the school—communication, collaboration, and ethical leadership—contribute to lifelong personal and professional achievement.
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School employs over 70 experienced faculty and staff members, all dedicated to the school’s mission of academic and spiritual growth. Teachers are highly qualified, with many holding advanced degrees and certifications in education. The staff prioritizes personalized learning and cultivates meaningful relationships with students, fostering a strong sense of belonging and mentorship.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty at St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s are distinguished by their expertise and dedication. Many educators have received recognition for innovation in teaching, curriculum design, and community engagement. Their combined experience ensures a learning environment that balances academic rigor with emotional intelligence, preparing students to think critically and act compassionately.
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School features a well-equipped urban campus with modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. Students participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, robotics clubs, theater productions, and student leadership groups. Although the school does not provide housing, it creates a warm, community-based atmosphere that supports collaboration and lifelong friendships.
Transportation
Located in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, the school is easily accessible by public transportation, including subway and bus routes. Many families walk or carpool, and the school provides designated drop-off and pick-up zones for safety. The central location ensures convenience for both local and commuting students, contributing to the vibrant and connected school environment.