Question 1

What ages do children need to be to enroll at Columbia Academy?

Accepted Answer

We welcome children in Howard County, Maryland, from 6 weeks to 5 years at our Kendall Ridge, Kings Contrivance, Maple Lawn, Thunder Hill Campuses, and 4 years through eighth grade at our Columbia Academy Elementary and Middle School Campus. Each stage of our Programs is thoughtfully created to support your child exactly where they are, while gently helping them build the confidence and skills they need for what comes next. Our programs are designed to grow alongside your child year after year. Whether that is their very first classroom environment or a nurturing, academically strong elementary or middle school.

Question 2

How do we begin the admissions process and schedule a tour?

Accepted Answer

The best way to begin is by visiting our school and scheduling a tour where your family can choose the campus that feels like the best fit for your child. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to walk through the classrooms, meet our educators, and see firsthand how your child would learn, play, and grow throughout the day in our nurturing environment. Emily Gilliam, our School Leader at our Elementary and Middle School Campus, shares that meeting families face-to-face is one of the most meaningful parts of the enrollment process because it allows parents to truly picture their child's experience within our community. From your very first conversation with us, we want your family to be welcomed, supported, and excited about this next chapter for your little one.

Question 3

What should our family expect after we schedule a tour?

Accepted Answer

After your visit, our enrollment team will follow up with the information your family needs to make your decision with confidence. You will receive a welcome packet, enrollment forms, and personalized guidance based on your child's age and grade level. From there, we partner closely with your family to help prepare for your child's first day, including classroom introductions, parent communication setup, and support for any final questions you may have. Our goal is for the transition to be smooth, reassuring, and exciting for both your child and your family.

Question 4

Are there waitlists at any of the Columbia Academy campuses?

Accepted Answer

Because our preschool academy programs are popular with Howard County families, some classrooms do fill quickly, especially our infant and toddler rooms. We encourage your family to reach out as early as possible so we can talk through availability across our five Campuses, including Maple Lawn, Kings Contrivance, Thunder Hill, Kendall Ridge, and our Elementary and Middle School Campus. If your preferred classroom is full, we will gladly work with your family to explore other options or place your child on a waitlist so we can stay connected as openings become available.

Question 5

Not all private school education is the same. What makes Columbia Academy different?

Accepted Answer

Not all private school education providers share the same values, teaching philosophy, or approach to supporting children. That difference matters deeply when you are choosing where your child will spend their days. At Columbia Academy, your child is not simply another student in a classroom, but is known, encouraged, and supported as an individual every step of the way. As Emily Gilliam, School Leader at our Elementary and Middle School Campus, explains, "Our students are always at the heart of everything we do. We believe children thrive when families, educators, and the entire school community work together to support and guide them every step of the way." That belief shapes how your child is cared for, how our classrooms are designed, and how your family is welcomed into our community. According to the Learning Policy Institute, children who attend high-quality preschool programs experience stronger learning gains and are better prepared academically than children who do not. We take this responsibility seriously, which is why 96% of our students meet or exceed the GOLD Readiness Benchmark each year, based on internal assessments aligned with national standards.

Question 6

What curriculum do you use in your classrooms?

Accepted Answer

The learning experience at Columbia Academy is built around project-based learning, which means your little one actively explores real-world ideas through hands-on discovery rather than simply sitting and memorizing information. Daijah Daniels, School Leader at Columbia Academy Kings Contrivance, explains, "We use Creative Curriculum and project-based learning that allows children to learn through investigation and exploration. Children do a lot of hands-on learning, which gets them to the why behind what they learn and allows for a deeper, meaningful understanding." This approach encourages your child to ask questions, make discoveries, and build confidence while developing strong academic skills across reading, math, science, and social studies. As your child grows into elementary and middle school, the curriculum expands to include integrated STEAM opportunities, art, and music.

Question 7

How do you prepare children for kindergarten and the next stage of school?

Accepted Answer

Our pre-kindergarten and transitional kindergarten programs are thoughtfully designed to help your child walk into kindergarten with confidence, curiosity, and the skills they need to thrive. Your little one will build strong foundations in early literacy, math exploration, problem-solving, and social-emotional development through engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences. According to the Institute of Education Sciences, children who attend high-quality early childhood education programs develop stronger language, reading, writing, and math skills before entering elementary school. Those benefits continue throughout your child's educational journey, which is reflected in the strong academic performance of our students.

Question 8

How do your teachers support children who learn differently or need extra help?

Accepted Answer

Every child learns in their own unique way, and our teachers take the time to truly understand your child as an individual from the very beginning. Smaller class sizes allow our educators to use differentiated instruction that meets your child where they are, whether that means small-group support, extra encouragement in certain subjects, or enrichment opportunities for children who are ready for additional challenges. Michelle Rellorosa, School Leader at Columbia Academy Kendall Ridge, shares that her team observes children carefully and communicates closely with families so they can respond to each child's needs with intention, patience, and care. This personalized approach helps your child feel seen, supported, and confident in the classroom.

Question 9

What enrichment programs are part of the school day?

Accepted Answer

Enrichment is woven into your child's everyday experience at Columbia Academy because we believe children thrive when encouraged to explore a wide range of interests. Throughout the school day, your child will participate in physical education, Spanish, art, and music alongside core academics. As your child enters elementary and middle school, they will also have opportunities to join student clubs, explore STEAM learning, use SMART Board technology, and discover new passions through creative, hands-on experiences. These opportunities help your child build confidence, curiosity, and a genuine love of learning.

Question 10

How do you balance academic excellence with social and emotional growth?

Accepted Answer

Academic excellence and emotional well-being go hand in hand at Columbia Academy because your child learns best when they are emotionally safe, connected, and supported. Throughout the day, your little one will learn responsibility, kindness, collaboration, and confidence through both structured learning and natural classroom interactions. When they feel safe and valued, they are free to ask questions, take healthy academic risks, and grow into a confident learner.

Question 11

What does a typical day look like for my child?

Accepted Answer

A typical day at Columbia Academy is filled with learning, creativity, movement, friendship, and meaningful moments that help your little one feel excited to come to school each morning. Their day will include a thoughtful balance of academic instruction, hands-on projects, enrichment activities, outdoor play, meals, and opportunities to connect with classmates and teachers. Michelle Rellorosa, School Leader at Columbia Academy Kendall Ridge, describes it beautifully when she says to "expect the unexpected, but always be prepared to adapt," because every day includes milestones, discoveries, and the small moments that make childhood so meaningful.

Question 12

How do you handle transitions between activities throughout the day?

Accepted Answer

Smooth transitions are an important part of helping your child feel secure and confident throughout the school day. Our teachers use consistent routines, gentle reminders, songs, and calm guidance to help your little one move comfortably from one activity to the next. Younger children receive extra patience and support during transitions, while older students are encouraged to build independence and responsibility in age-appropriate ways. This consistency helps your child feel safe, prepared, and emotionally supported throughout the day.

Question 13

How much time do children spend outside each day?

Accepted Answer

Outdoor play is an important part of your child's daily experience at Columbia Academy. Your little one will enjoy time outside on safe, age-appropriate playgrounds designed to encourage movement, imagination, exploration, and friendship. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity supports children's attention, memory, brain development, and overall academic performance, which is one of the many reasons we prioritize movement and outdoor play throughout your child's day.

Question 14

How do you support naptime and rest for our youngest learners?

Accepted Answer

Rest is an important part of your child's growth and well-being, especially during the infant, toddler, and preschool years. Our classrooms are thoughtfully arranged to provide calm, comfortable spaces where your little one can rest and recharge during the day. We also work closely with your family to support routines that help your child feel secure, rested, and cared for while they are at school.

Question 15

What happens before and after school care?

Accepted Answer

Our before and after-school programs are designed to accommodate your family's schedule while providing your child with a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment outside regular school hours. Before school, your child will enjoy quiet activities, breakfast options, and time to ease into the day. After school, they participate in enrichment activities, homework support, creative projects, and outdoor play with familiar educators and friends. These programs give your family peace of mind knowing your child is cared for in a warm and supportive setting.

Question 16

What safety measures are in place across the Columbia Academy campuses?

Accepted Answer

Your child's safety and well-being are at the center of everything we do. Each Campus includes secure entry systems, classroom cameras, fenced playgrounds, and regular safety inspections designed to help your family feel confident and reassured each day. Beyond physical safety, we also focus on creating emotionally supportive classrooms where your child feels respected, valued, and cared for by the adults around them.

Question 17

What qualifications and background checks do your teachers complete?

Accepted Answer

Every educator caring for your child undergoes extensive background checks through the State of Maryland Criminal Justice Information System and the FBI, as well as a thorough hiring process, before joining our school community. Our teachers also complete ongoing professional development and specialized training in areas like child development, CPR, First Aid, medication administration, and emergency preparedness. Most importantly, your child will be surrounded by caring educators who are deeply committed to helping your little one feel safe, supported, and confident every day.

Question 18

How do you handle illness and keep children healthy at our school?

Accepted Answer

Keeping your child healthy and comfortable at school is something we take seriously. We work closely with your family to maintain a healthy learning environment through regular classroom cleaning, handwashing routines, clear illness policies, and open communication whenever concerns arise. If your child becomes unwell during the school day, our team communicates quickly and thoughtfully so your family always feels informed and supported.

Question 19

How do you ensure playground safety for younger and older students?

Accepted Answer

Your child's playground experience should feel both exciting and safe. Our playgrounds are designed with age-appropriate equipment, protective surfacing, secure fencing, and active teacher supervision, so your little one can run, climb, explore, and build confidence through active play each day.

Question 20

How do you handle food, snacks, and food allergies?

Accepted Answer

We understand how important food safety is for your family's peace of mind. During enrollment, we work closely with your family to understand your child's allergies, sensitivities, and dietary needs so we can care for your little one safely throughout the school day. Communication, attention to detail, and thoughtful care are always part of our approach.

Question 21

How do you communicate with parents throughout the school year?

Accepted Answer

Strong communication helps your family stay connected to your child's experiences, milestones, and growth throughout the year. Our preschool classrooms use the Tadpoles app for daily reports, updates, and photos so you can be part of your child's day even while apart. We also communicate through newsletters, emails, conferences, and ongoing conversations to ensure your family is always informed, involved, and supported throughout your child's journey with us.

Question 22

How are families involved in the daily life of Columbia Academy?

Accepted Answer

Your family is an important part of our school community, and we love creating opportunities for parents to feel connected throughout the year. Whether your family joins us for classroom celebrations, school events, conferences, or volunteer opportunities, your involvement helps strengthen the connection between home and school. We truly believe children thrive when families and educators work together as partners.

Question 23

What does the larger Columbia Academy community feel like?

Accepted Answer

Families often tell us there is a warmth and sense of belonging they feel the moment they walk through our doors. Across all five campuses, your child will be surrounded by caring educators, meaningful friendships, and a supportive community that genuinely celebrates their growth and accomplishments. Michelle Rellorosa, School Leader at Columbia Academy Kendall Ridge, shares, "We create a warm, welcoming environment where everyone feels at home, and we treat one another like family." That sense of connection is something we hope your family gets from the very beginning.

Question 24

How do you handle concerns or questions when they come up?

Accepted Answer

We never want your family to feel alone when questions, concerns, or challenges arise. Our teachers and school leaders are here to listen, communicate openly, and partner closely with your family to support your child in the best possible way. Emily Gilliam, School Leader at our Elementary and Middle School Campus, emphasizes that "families and staff are essential partners in supporting student success and strengthening the school as a whole," and that this belief guides how we communicate with and care for every family in our community.

Question 25

How does the partnership with Endeavor Schools benefit families looking at independent schools?

Accepted Answer

As part of Endeavor Schools, your child's educators benefit from shared knowledge, professional development, and support from leading educational organizations across the country. While many families compare independent schools with public schools, our mission is to give your child a more personal, nurturing learning experience where they are truly known and supported. This partnership helps our team use evidence-based practices, innovative teaching strategies, and a wide range of educational resources to support your child's growth and confidence. Most importantly, it helps protect the warm, caring attitude and close-knit community that your family will experience every day at Columbia Academy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Columbia Academy School

Admissions & Enrollment at Columbia Academy

Curriculum at Our Private Schools

Daily Routines and Children's Experiences

Health and Safety

Communication & Community

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Kendall Ridge

Maple Lawn

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Kings Contrivance

Thunder Hill

Kendall Ridge

Maple Lawn

Elementary and Middle School

Kings Contrivance

Thunder Hill

Kendall Ridge

Maple Lawn

Elementary and Middle School

Kings Contrivance

Thunder Hill