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forwardthin

“ When we look to the future, we see a world that values grit

and determination, creativity and expression, compassion and

courage, and a global sensibility and understanding. With a

deep and intentional educational program, King challenges our

students to develop all this and more, with best practices behind

all that we do. It’s our duty to earn the confidence of every child

and every family, every day.” – TOM MAIN, Head of School

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KNOWLEDGE&of

3

KNOWLEDGE&

At King Low Heywood Thomas, we believe a great education requires

a curiosity about the world, your community, and yourself. Our School

brings together many different students with a common desire to know,

and be known – and we deliver on both. King’s program is student-

centered yet comprehensive, rigorous without being overwhelming, and

as innovative as it is preparatory. We are guided by our Mission and our

four core virtues of Integrity, Kindness, Perseverance, and Respect.

understanding

passionatei n t h e

pursuit

Our personalized approach to

education means that every student

is seen, and appropriately stretched

and challenged. It is not changing

the curriculum for every child, but it

is the recognition by faculty that we

all learn differently. We encourage

our students to embrace a “growth

mindset” where they see their

strengths and weaknesses and are

not afraid of either one. The result:

a community of engaged, resilient,

lifelong learners who believe in

themselves and each other. King’s forward-thinking philosophy

informs all that we do and ensures

that we never stagnate. Our

campus is always expanding and

improving, and we are proud of

our latest enhancements including

a beautifully remodeled Upper

School building, new Visual Arts

Center and Performing Arts Center,

as well as recent renovations to

create state-of-the-art space for our

growing Computer Science program

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integrityUnderstanding and

living by our values

with authenticity.

kindnessIntentional consideration

and compassion for others.

perseveranceRelentlessly pursuing

excellence with a focus on

growth and improvement.

respectTreating every person with

dignity and civility through

honoring ourselves and

others in our words

and actions.

Individual Moral Character,

Collective Well-being

King’s 4 virtues

and recent S.T.E.A.M (science,

technology, engineering, arts, and

math) initiatives. We invest as much

in our faculty as we do our facilities,

knowing that both are the foundation

of our success. We hold ourselves to

the same high standards we have

for our students: to be persistent

in pursuit of what is better and

right while staying open to new

learning opportunities.

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education is not just learning what’s right. It is learning what’s right for YOU.

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We believe that a strong and healthy

student is one who understands that learning

takes a fearless approach and is confident

enough to go for it. This is why we have created

an academic environment that is rigorous and

caring – King’s small classes, dynamic and

dedicated teachers, and deep understanding of

the ways students learn ensure that every child

is suitably challenged and successful.

Our signature approach to teaching is rooted in

emerging research about how the brain works,

but simply put: it’s good practice. When our

students are able to access material in a way that

makes the most sense to them, their education

becomes more meaningful. If you take Multi-

Variable Calculus – and King is the only school

in the area to offer this full-time advanced

course – we can be sure it is a good fit for you,

not just your resume.

At King, our teachers are generous with their

time, getting to know their students as learners

and as people. By detailing and tracking each

child’s strengths and challenges, teachers have

information to help focus their work and to

share with one another. This process exemplifies

King’s commitment to helping each student find

his or her own path to success.

Young people who come of age in an environment

that helps them find the best in themselves become

adults with the capacity to find the best in others..

education is not just learning what’s right. It is learning what’s right for YOU.

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peter newcomb | US History and Associate Director of College Counseling

Mr. Newcomb sought to answer the essential question “How does geography impact the

rise of a civilization?” by visiting the Amazon Basin and peaks of the Andes. Being able

to explore Peru’s dramatic landscape firsthand enriched his lesson plans and enabled

him to share new perspectives on the Incan culture with his students. “They can go on

their own exploration of the country, even while remaining in Stamford.”

our faculty is in the mix with those who matter MOST.

The student-teacher relationship is

the cornerstone of King’s academic culture.

Our faculty members are experts in their fields,

and most have advanced degrees; still, they are

teachers of children before they are teachers

of content. This approach is apparent in every

interaction, and keeps students engaged and

enthusiastic about learning.

King’s teachers are committed to not only their

students, but to one another, as well, working

together to unify academics within and across

each division, and providing support, mentorship,

and camaraderie.

The culture of growth and renewal at King runs

deep. Faculty members attend and present at

national and regional conferences and workshops,

pursue graduate programs, and are eligible for

summer sabbaticals — because we know when

King’s teachers have the latest information and

feel stimulated, our students will, too.

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global education MAKES a WORLD

of difference.

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Arapidly changing world demands a depth

and breadth of understanding, and King’s Global

Studies Program emphasizes cultural literacy and

connection. From a young age, King students learn

to respect differences and to be catalysts for positive

change here at home and around the world. Each

year, King offers a variety of cultural and language

immersion trips and our students have proven savvy

global citizens and impressive ambassadors of our

community. It is experiential learning at its finest,

whether traveling roads lined with trees planted by

Napoleon, climbing the Acropolis, or working in an

orphanage with Rwandan children. The world may be

getting smaller, but the hearts and minds of King’s

students continue to grow.

We are pleased to offer a Global Studies Distinction,

which is noted on the transcript and diploma, to Upper

School students seeking a deeper experience through

required coursework, clubs, travel, and a capstone

project. Our Model UN Club continues to thrive and

recently attended the international conference in

Beijing. Electives like Cultural Anthropology, The

Good, The Bad, and the Ugly: A Study of Behavior

Under Pressure, and AP Comparative Governments

augment world language study and related courses

to enrich global understanding.

One’s academic experience at King is made all

the more meaningful with the added ability to

recognize, understand, appreciate,

and accept perspectives other than one’s own.

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embarkOur Global Education Program begins in the

Lower School where our students are introduced

to a variety of world cultures through hands-

on projects, cultural diversity initiatives, global

citizenship awareness, and exposure to the

learning of their first world language in PreK.

They also explore the environmental richness

of our planet, and develop an appreciation and

respect for its beauty and for nature.

exploreAt the Middle School, students deepen their

global understanding of human geography

by gaining comprehensive knowledge of the

diversity of ethnicities, religions, languages,

cultures, and their history. The program also

introduces anthropological aspects of various

societies and discusses eco-friendly forms of

energy and other environmental issues.

engageIn the Upper School, King students take a

multidisciplinary approach to examining and

understanding challenges facing the modern

world. Through an intensive study of global

problems – environmental, socioeconomic,

diplomatic, and intellectual – students learn how

to critically assess and respond to the common

interests and issues they face as global citizens.

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what makes us the same is that we are all UNIQUE.

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Diversity is a core value at King.

Be it gender, race, ethnicity, religion,

socioeconomics, sexual orientation, age,

physical ability, or talent, our many differences

combine in one community where each

person is valued. At King, we see character

development as part of our college preparatory

program, and lessons of mutual understanding

and social justice are seamlessly integrated

with traditional academics. Our students will

tell you that King’s campus climate is one that

constantly seeks inclusiveness, mutual respect,

appreciation, and understanding.

Make a ConnectionAt King, faculty, parents, and students

alike are encouraged to engage with one another and the world, challenge

assumptions, and affect change. Here are a few of the many different forums open

for discussion.

Diversity Dialogues

Mix-It-Up Lunch

Multicultural Fair

Speaker Series

Multicultural Families Events

Parent Diversity Council

Faculty & Staff Diversity

Council

KING VALUES a community in which each individual

strives for the wisdom and goodness found in a deep

understanding of equity, fairness, and inclusion. Rooted in

respect and personal responsibility, the School’s culture

offers a supportive and reflective environment that

embraces diversity as integral to educational excellence.

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We champion the development

of each individual’s talents, character, and

self-confidence by offering our students the

opportunity to help others through service

learning and community engagement. Students,

teachers, and parents all bring their time, energy,

and ideas to a variety of volunteer projects.

The Lower School’s Service Learning Program

includes volunteering at senior centers, cooking

for a soup kitchen, and connecting with students

at an inner-city preschool. In Middle School,

each grade partners with an organization, giving

students an opportunity to build relationships

as well as a sense of social responsibility. By

Upper School, a variety of student-run clubs and

activities address causes from homelessness

and hunger to literacy and the environment.

King’s Parents Support Community Service

fortifies these efforts across all divisions, and

also oversees additional initiatives including

King’s Uniform Exchange. A theme, such as

sustainability, gives shape to our program, with

featured speakers and recommended readings

for the entire community.

At King, service is not a mandate – it is simply

part of our mission to build a respectful,

compassionate environment. We believe that an

emphasis on participation and leadership today

will give us more to celebrate tomorrow.

if you create a culture of service, service becomes your life, NOT a learning requirement.

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if you create a culture of service, service becomes your life, NOT a learning requirement.

Private School, Public Purpose

Each year, King hosts dozens of service-based

organizations at a Volunteer Fair from which

students come to understand specific needs,

make new contacts, and volunteer.

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the quarterback is the STAR on the stage.

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At King, it is not ‘either-or’– it is ‘and.’

This means all of our students are exposed

to many forms of creative expression and

encouraged to pursue an artistic passion or

discover a new one.

King’s Performing Arts Program develops self-

confidence and creativity. In Lower School,

early exploration of music and movement ties

into core study and culminates with a Grade 5

musical theater production; additionally,

LS students have the opportunity to participate

in the King Children’s Orchestra and the King

Children’s Choir. By Middle School, all students

develop musicianship skills with units on music

theory, composition, singing, and dancing, and

take part in two performances. Choir, Band, and

the Studio Ensemble enhance our MS Program.

The Upper School’s requirement includes

performance participation and coursework –

such as Music Theory, Technical Theater, or

Public Speaking – so by the time they graduate,

all students will have significant experience

with the Performing Arts. King’s stunning

Performing Arts Center is an enviable setting

for these creative pursuits.

Our Visual Arts Program is designed to help

young people view the world through the eyes

of an artist and tap into their own creativity. All

projects emphasize process as much as product,

which is why even our most tentative artists are

We expect our students to acquire the artistic tools and

vocabulary to make and discuss art, instilling the belief

that they can be creative thinkers and problem solvers.

Our hope is that students leave the studio having found

themselves to be more imaginative, enthusiastic,

and skillful than they thought.

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able to feel successful here. King’s halls and

walls are alive with art, and ongoing exhibitions

of student work reflect our colorful and talented

community. The Upper School building provides

a stunning showcase for creations of all kinds,

and the Performing Arts Center lobby doubles

as extraordinary exhibition space for students,

professional artists, and alumni.

Our Lower and Middle School art program

introduces and reinforces the basic techniques

of drawing, printmaking, design, sculpture,

and painting through a variety of methods, and

includes looking at art and artists from many

cultures around the world. In Upper School,

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the Study of Art course plus one more visual

arts course are required. Many students go on

to take additional art classes, and Advanced Art

students may develop their own curriculum and

create a completely unique body of work.

We want our students to experience the creative

exhilaration that comes from challenging

yourself, creating a perfect line with charcoal,

learning a demanding line of music, seeing

raw clay become finished pottery by your

own hand. The feeling of accomplishment

experienced through the arts is like none other.

Except maybe a touchdown.

Students are required to participate in at least one theater production over four years, as well as

to choose from an array of courses covering all aspects of the Performing Arts, from Beginning

Guitar and Technical Theater to AP Music Theory and Stage Combat in Shakespeare’s Plays.

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King’s Athletics Program is highly

competitive while remaining inclusive and

emphasizing sportsmanship. It is this successful

formula that has led to many Fairchester and

New England championships in sports including

Football, Boys’ Soccer, Volleyball, Ice Hockey,

Girls’ Basketball, Baseball, and Softball. We offer

Varsity and JV teams, and our no-cut philosophy

ensures that every student can participate and try

new sports while maintaining a quality program for

athletes at the top level.

The Athletics Program aims to build self-esteem,

instill confidence, and develop teamwork. This

allows the student who may not normally take

on a leadership role to do so, and succeed. The

majority of our coaches at King are also teachers

here, which creates opportunities for mentoring

and meaningful relationships in a variety of

contexts. It’s all part of our commitment to our

students, and to seeing them as the multifaceted

people that they are. No wonder nearly 70 percent

of our Upper School students pursue at least two

sports each year.

WE ARE ALLVikings!

We like to win games, but we take more pride in the

sportsmanship and school spirit we bring to every athletic

endeavor. At King, we understand that winning only has

value when coupled with respect and consideration for

our opponents, and for each other.

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King has Varsity squads in 15 different sports,

and 35 interscholastic teams at the Varsity

and JV levels. We are part of the Fairchester

Athletic Association of independent schools

in Fairfield County, Conn., and Westchester

County, N.Y., and the Western New England

Preparatory School Association. We

encourage our students in all of their athletic

pursuits. Our flexibility and commitment to

the individual has enabled us to work with

students to support their success in other

sports such as crew, equestrian, fencing,

sailing, skiing, snowboarding, and swimming.

Many students go on to pursue these and

other sports at the top collegiate level.

TEAM SPORTSBaseballBasketballCross CountryField HockeyFootballGolfLacrosse

Ice HockeySoccerSoftballSquashTennisVolleyball

INDIVIDUAL OFFERINGS CrewEquestrianFencingSailing

Skiing SnowboardingSwimming

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AT KING,

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We are known for our highly responsive way of teaching – and the result

is a rigorous education where a student’s mind is stretched and their

sense of self stays intact. It’s a model we believe in, and we see the

benefits in each graduate.

SUCCESS

AT KING,

to

there areM O R E T H A N

700 paths

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Learning happens in little and

big ways every day, and always

with a focus on the person within

the pupil: a math teacher offers

manipulatives to help a child better

understand spatial reasoning; a

conversation over lunch and sticky

notes empowers the reluctant writer

to organize a term paper; the Middle

School musician is encouraged

to portray the periodic table as a

symphony. By blending knowledge

of each student with current

research in innovative instruction,

King provides a truly personalized

approach to education.

Across all divisions, King’s

curriculum challenges the intellect

and promotes communication and

problem solving skills; an awareness

of the complexities of our ever-

changing world; and an appreciation

of and responsibility for others.

We believe that to teach our students

to be flexible in changing times, we

need to be nimble, too, and we are

always evaluating and responding

to the latest educational research

within a traditional curriculum.

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Some schools simply deliver course

material; at King, we make sure our

students really understand it. When

you internalize something, you can

make connections across content

areas, and this leads to new insights

and a desire for more knowledge.

Our goal is for students to leave King

not only prepared, but also inspired

for higher education.

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preparing the next generation of digital natives.

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King’s Computer Science and Digital

Applications programs are growing rapidly.

Students at all grade levels are exposed to

the latest technologies and courses – coding,

podcasting, animation, robotics, web design,

mobile app development, and more. Our

course offerings clearly demonstrate King’s

commitment to innovation and progress; what

is less obvious is our faculty’s concurrent

focus on what all this rapid change means to

education and how to ensure that our students

receive what they need – programmatically and

personally – to succeed. This ties in directly with

our overall strategic plan – prioritizing not only

what we teach, but how we teach it.

Our youngest students learn basic digital literacy

and skills with exposure to laptops, iPads, and

other computer equipment in their classroom,

the library, music, and art. In Grades 3-5, we

introduce more advanced applications and

software, promoting sophisticated, complex,

and creative uses of digital and engineering

tools. In Middle School, as we expand our

course selection and build internet research

skills, we also ask our students to start thinking

about their digital footprints – responsible use

and the power of social media. By Upper School,

opportunities abound, from AP Computer

Programming to 3D Printing and state and

national engineering competitions.

As this fast-moving field continues to evolve

and new technologies emerge, it is impossible

to predict what the future holds, yet one thing

is certain: King, as in all we do, will keep pace

with change.

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Putting the TEAM into STEAM!King’s Lower School Media Studio is a place to build Science,

Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics skills –

though our students will tell you it’s just awesome. With a green

screen, animation stations, instrumental keyboards, and more, it is

like a playground for your brain. Studio activities range from

building a robot to creating a documentary on the solar

system, but the goal is always the same: collaboration, because

at King we know that true success requires it.

My favorite part of school is the nice people and good friends ... AND sports AND spelling.

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Beginning in our youngest grades,

King offers a warm and supportive place

to learn. At the heart of the PreK-Grade 5

Lower School is an interactive, experiential

curriculum that builds on children’s natural

curiosity. They become scientists, writers, artists,

and mathematicians who explore, entertain,

question, and collaborate. At the same time,

our teachers are curious, too – coming to

understand how each child learns best and

adjusting their approach to maximize each

student’s experience.

Small classes, creative faculty, and a student-

centered philosophy combine to create unique

learning opportunities, lively discussions, and

cross-curricular connections. Centers and group

work are a key part of our Lower School model.

The majority of our project-based work is done

here at school so we can see up close how our

students consolidate information and, most

importantly, so they feel ownership of a

job well done.

lower school

My favorite part of school is the nice people and good friends ... AND sports AND spelling.

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Our teachers understand that learning happens

at different rates, and are skilled when it comes

to giving students an appropriate level of

challenge – one kindergartener may be doing an

independent language arts project while another

enjoys his or her first chapter book. We are

constantly reevaluating the needs of our students

to meet them where they are… and then push

them a little further.

At King, we work closely with parents to provide

our students with a solid base of support, and we

welcome your involvement in LS life. Together, we

can foster the social, emotional, and intellectual

growth of each student – and have fun doing it.

GOALS OF THE LOWER SCHOOL PROGRAM:

• Foster a love of learning

• Develop and enhance academic skills

• Apply and integrate intellectual processes

• Recognize and support various learning styles

• Develop physical and artistic expression

• Promote individual, social, and emotional development

• Instill values of good citizenship and social responsibility

lower school

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At an age of many transitions,

young people feel more connected to their

school and invested in their education when

they discover the talents that motivate

them, academic subjects that engage

them, activities that delight them, and

teachers who understand them. Our Middle

School Program is designed with young

adolescents in mind, and we challenge our

students to become more independent

while providing appropriate support and

encouragement.

Often an entire unit is built around

a central question, and subsequent

lessons become a student-driven quest

for answers. Discussions, dissections,

group work, independent study… it all

combines to create a rich and textured

learning environment where students are

encouraged to reach beyond their academic

comfort zone.

i believe in myself becausemy teachers believe in me.

My favorite part of the day is the dinner table

conversation with my kids. That’s when it becomes

crystal clear how excited they are about what

they are learning at King.

middle school

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The world is becoming increasingly

interdisciplinary, collaborative, and connected

and at King we have designed our program

accordingly. Our teachers apply a hands-on

methodology and personal interest approach

to help students progress through complicated

course work and concepts, laying the

groundwork for future learning at King

and beyond.

With a strong Middle School Program and

teachers to match, King students develop a

capacity for problem solving, critical thinking,

and a global view. Young people learn best when

they are actively involved in their education and

the assessment of their work and behavior, and

our student-led conferences provide a unique

opportunity for self-advocacy and thoughtful

goal setting. At an age when self-consciousness

often sets in, our students are encouraged to not

only find their voice, but to use it.

middle school

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GOALS OF THE MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAM:

• Create opportunities for active learning and varied expression

• Solidify academic skills

• Lay foundation for Upper School success

• Develop lifelong learners

• Develop the whole child

• Instill values of good citizenship and social responsibility

• Offer a physically and emotionally safe environment

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what’s theopposite of

a pressure cooker?

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King’s Academic Program is

demanding – but as one student said, it’s the

kind of demanding that is motivating, not scary.

We provide a range of traditional and elective

courses, including Honors and Advanced

Placement and beyond, which emphasize

writing skills, analytical thinking, problem

solving, self-expression, and sound judgment

informed by compassion and a clear sense

of ethics. When your goal is to get into a top

college, it is easy to view your classmates as

competition. But at King, classmates are not

your competition – they are your community,

where everyone is able to thrive and find

success.

We are pleased to offer distinctions in both

World Language and Global Studies, an

opportunity for students to delve deeper

into a discipline with additional course work

and cultural immersion. In keeping with our

commitment to a personalized education, we

make Independent Study options available

King is giving my child a rigorous education,

but they’re doing it in a way that really

honors who he is.

upper school

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to all, either in addition to a full course load

or to round out a student’s academics; this

includes work on a topic of one’s own design

under the direction of a mentor.

Our Advisory Program pairs each student with

a faculty member who serves as an advocate

and primary point person, as well as a “safety

net” to ensure no one falls through the

cracks. By Upper School, students choose an

Advisor and usually maintain that relationship

through their four years at King. Advisors

meet with small groups of advisees first thing

each morning, and once per rotation for a

longer stretch of time. Think of it like the

“home” in homeroom.

Many schools talk about graduation as a

culmination – at King we believe it marks

the beginning of your journey, and it is

our privilege to give our students what is

needed to move forward with confidence,

compassion, and a love of learning.

Examples of past

Independent Studies

include Aerospace

Engineering, Film

Production, Italian,

Greek, Russian,

Research in Biomass

Energy, and Writing

a Children’s Book

– topics as diverse

as King’s students

themselves.

upper school

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King offers Advanced Placement courses (and beyond) including but not limited to:

• AP English Language and Composition• AP English Literature• AP Calculus AB• AP Calculus BC• Multi-Variable Calculus• AP Statistics• AP Microeconomics• AP Macroeconomics• AP Spanish Literature• AP Spanish Language• AP French Language• AP Mandarin Chinese • AP U.S. History• AP European History• AP Comparative Government

and Politics• AP Chemistry• AP Biology• AP Physics 1• AP Physics 2• AP Physics C – Mechanics • AP Physics C – Electricity

and Magnetism• AP Computer Science• AP Music Theory

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The College Counseling Program at

King prepares our students for a meaningful

college search experience that will help them

identify institutions that best fit their aspirations,

interests, academic strengths, and personalities.

Almost 100 representatives from colleges

across the country visit King each year.

In Grade 10, students are assigned to a college

counselor who will see them through the

application process. The vertical model creates

a more cohesive experience, and is also more

compatible with today’s college recruiting and

search environment. Each counselor works with

students to frame and plan their standardized

testing, approach their search, focus their lists,

submit applications, and make their decisions.

We offer a Junior Class college tour, which

takes place the first week of school and gives

our students exposure to the many options that

await: urban, suburban, rural, small liberal arts

colleges, large universities, state universities, Ivy

League (or Most Competitive Plus colleges), and

art or music schools.

Like everything else at King, the college

counseling process is student-centered, and

part of why we start early is to allow for a holistic

approach. Our goal is helping you find the right

match, where you will be stimulated, valued,

and successful.

Our college matriculation list may be found on

our web site.

we make sure you get into the best college – FOR YOU.

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Approved

Remove tray and no cell phone.

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Come to campus and learn more about your future with King!

There is a lot to learn and experience.

Our Fall Open House provides prospective families with an overview

of the admission process, and campus tours are an opportunity to

see our School in action. To schedule your visit, please give us a call

at (203) 322-3496, Ext. 350.

King’s admission process is thorough and competitive, so we

recommend starting as soon as possible. The deadline for completed

applications is December 15.

We welcome your questions and look forward to your visit with us.

ONWARD

Knowledgef o r t h e

Journey.

with KING

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ONWARDwith KING

We provide an excellent, progressive education, grounded in the traditional

disciplines of the arts and sciences, committed to the nurturing of individual

potential, and designed to promote critical thinking and reasoned reflection.

Using rich and innovative methods, our Teachers facilitate each student’s

fullest academic and personal achievement. We champion the development

of character, self-confidence, and talent through challenging intellectual,

creative, athletic, leadership, and service opportunities.

King believes that individual accomplishment must go hand in

hand with respect for others. Our culture of respect fosters collaboration

as well as independence. We embrace human and cultural diversity.

We value responsible citizenship.

King graduates are well equipped to succeed in college and to pursue

lives of ongoing inquiry, learning, accomplishment, personal

fulfillment, and social responsibility.

Our MissionKing is dedicated to preparing its students

to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

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1450 Newfield Avenue | Stamford, CT 06905 | (203) 322-3496 | www.klht.org