Ward Melville Senior High School
General Information
About Ward Melville Senior High School
Ward Melville Senior High School is a highly regarded public high school located in East Setauket, New York, recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, extracurricular engagement, and student development. Established to serve the Three Village Central School District, the school provides a rigorous college preparatory curriculum, offering students a variety of courses ranging from advanced placement (AP) and honors classes to specialized electives in arts, sciences, and technology. The school emphasizes holistic education, blending academic challenges with robust programs in athletics, performing arts, leadership, and community service.
Ward Melville Senior High School is renowned for its emphasis on fostering critical thinking, creativity, and ethical responsibility, preparing students to succeed in higher education and beyond. With a strong focus on STEM education, global awareness, and social engagement, the school equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and competitive world. Faculty members are highly qualified, dedicated to individualized instruction and mentoring, ensuring that students receive personalized guidance to reach their full potential. The school also promotes a supportive and inclusive campus culture, encouraging collaboration, cultural understanding, and leadership development.
Contact Informations
Address: 380 Old Field Road, East Setauket, NY 11733
Phone Number: +1 (631) 730-4600
Email Address: info@wardmelvilleschools.org
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1968 |
| Type | Public, Coeducational, Grades 10–12 |
| Motto | “Knowledge, Integrity, Service” |
| Accreditation | New York State Education Department |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 12:1 |
| Campus Size | 77 acres |
| Mascot | Patriots |
| School Colors | Blue and Gold |
Ward Melville Senior High School Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position |
|---|---|
| Top Public High Schools in New York | Top 20 |
| STEM Program Ranking | Top 10 Statewide |
| National Academic Performance | Top 150 |
| Extracurricular Program Strength | Top 25 |
Ward Melville Senior High School Academics
Ward Melville Senior High School Faculties / Departments
- English and Literature Department
- Mathematics and Computer Science Department
- Science Department (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Social Studies and History Department
- World Languages Department (Spanish, French, Latin)
- Visual and Performing Arts Department
- Physical Education and Health Department
- Technology and Engineering Department
- College Counseling and Academic Support Department
Ward Melville Senior High School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Core Subjects: English, Math, Science, Social Studies
- Advanced Placement (AP) Courses across disciplines
- Honors Courses for advanced learners
- STEM Electives: Robotics, Computer Programming, Environmental Science
- World Languages: Spanish, French, Latin
- Fine Arts: Visual Arts, Music, Theatre
- Leadership and Civic Engagement Programs
- Independent Study and Capstone Projects
- College Preparation Seminars and Workshops
- Extracurricular Clubs and Academic Competitions
Online Learning
Ward Melville Senior High School incorporates online learning platforms to enhance instructional flexibility and student engagement. Through digital classrooms and virtual resources, students can access enrichment courses, homework assistance, and advanced topics beyond the traditional curriculum. This platform also facilitates remote learning during school closures and supports blended learning models for personalized instruction.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1380 |
| ACT | 30 |
| AP Exams | 4.2 Average |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Ward Melville Senior High School maintains a retention rate of 95%, demonstrating strong student engagement and academic satisfaction. The graduation rate consistently exceeds 97%, reflecting the school’s emphasis on academic achievement, student support, and preparation for post-secondary education.
Ward Melville Senior High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Typical students admitted or enrolled have GPAs ranging from 3.5 to 4.0, reflecting consistent academic performance. Standardized test scores usually range from 1300–1450 on the SAT and 28–32 on the ACT. Admissions decisions consider academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and demonstrated leadership.
Ward Melville Senior High School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance Rate | Public Enrollment |
| Selective Programs / STEM & AP Tracks | 70% |
Ward Melville Senior High School Application Requirements
As a public school, enrollment is generally based on residence within the Three Village Central School District. Students may apply to specialized programs or advanced tracks requiring submission of academic records, teacher recommendations, and, for selective programs, participation in testing or interviews. The process emphasizes both academic potential and alignment with the school’s mission of fostering intellectual curiosity, leadership, and civic responsibility.
Application Process
- Determine eligibility based on district residency
- Submit transcripts and teacher evaluations (for selective programs)
- Participate in any required assessments or interviews
- Receive enrollment confirmation or program placement notification
- Attend orientation and register for courses
Ward Melville Senior High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | January 1 |
| Selective Program Deadline | February 15 |
| Notification of Acceptance | March 15 |
| Course Registration | June 1 |
| School Year Begins | September 1 |
Essay Prompt
For selective programs: “Describe a personal experience that shaped your academic interests and how you plan to pursue those interests at Ward Melville Senior High School.”
Ward Melville Senior High School Scholarships
While tuition is not applicable as a public school, selective programs may offer recognition awards, scholarships, or stipends for academic achievement, STEM participation, and extracurricular excellence. These awards aim to support student growth and highlight outstanding achievement.
Ward Melville Senior High School Tuition and Fees
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Public Tuition | Free for District Residents |
| AP Exam Fees | $100 per exam |
| Extracurricular Activity Fees | $50–$300 depending on program |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
Ward Melville Senior High School enrolls approximately 2,500 students in grades 10–12, with a nearly balanced gender distribution. The student body reflects ethnic diversity, including 65% White, 15% Hispanic, 10% Asian, 5% African American, and 5% multiracial or other backgrounds. Students’ ages range from 15 to 18, providing a vibrant and collaborative learning environment.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The school provides targeted support for low-income students through meal programs and academic resources. Students with disabilities have access to individualized education plans (IEPs), academic accommodations, and specialized support staff to ensure inclusive learning opportunities.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 2,500 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 12:1 |
| International Students | 2% |
| Students Receiving Special Services | 12% |
University Diversity
Ward Melville Senior High School promotes a diverse and inclusive environment, supporting students from varied backgrounds, learning styles, and experiences. Through multicultural events, clubs, and community service programs, students engage with peers of different perspectives, fostering cultural awareness, empathy, and collaboration. Diversity enriches classroom discussions, encourages innovation, and prepares students for global citizenship, instilling values of respect and equity while enhancing social and academic learning.
Average Earnings
Graduates of Ward Melville Senior High School pursue higher education at prestigious colleges and universities nationwide, entering careers in STEM, medicine, law, business, arts, and public service. The strong academic foundation, combined with leadership skills and extracurricular achievements, provides graduates with competitive earning potential and opportunities for professional growth across various industries.
Ward Melville Senior High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty consists of experienced and highly qualified educators dedicated to student success, mentorship, and innovative teaching practices. Staff members provide guidance across academic, social, and extracurricular domains, ensuring students’ holistic development.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty expertise spans advanced placement courses, STEM disciplines, humanities, and the arts. Many have received awards for teaching excellence, contributed to professional publications, and engaged in community and academic initiatives, reflecting the school’s commitment to high-quality education.
Ward Melville Senior High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The campus spans 77 acres with state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, arts facilities, athletic complexes, and recreational spaces. As a public high school, it does not provide student housing, but students participate in a wide range of extracurricular programs, sports, clubs, and arts initiatives, promoting engagement, leadership, and personal growth within the school community.
Transportation
The school is accessible by local school buses and private transportation. Safe and efficient on-campus pathways facilitate student mobility between classrooms, athletic fields, and extracurricular spaces. Public transportation options in the surrounding area also support commuting students.