Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application process?
We suggest you begin by touring St. Richard's. The application process begins with families submitting an application for admission and a $75 application fee. Families also must arrange for the student's current school to submit an official academic record to St. Richard's. We also ask for teacher recommendations. Students applying for admission to Early Childhood (Pre-Kindergarten, Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten) also must attend a play-based observation, which the Office of Admission will schedule after receiving the child's application. Students applying for Grades 1-8 visit for a "shadow day" in lieu of the play-based observation. St. Richard's will mail first round admission decisions (applications received by January 31) to families by mid-March, and families have approximately two weeks to submit a signed contract. Any remaining openings may be filled at any time after this process is complete.
When should I begin the application process?
The application process can begin as early as the beginning of the school year for enrollment the following fall. Most often families complete the application process by January 31 in order to be notified of admission decisions by mid-March. Many private schools in Indianapolis have agreed to send admission letters on the same day so that students applying to multiple schools will have enrollment information at the same time. After the mid-March notification, applications and enrollment decisions for any remaining openings can occur whenever it is practical for the school and the prospective family.
What is the most important part of the application?
There really is not one single most important part of the application. St. Richard's educates students holistically and makes admission decisions in a similar manner. We consider the child's academic and developmental readiness, which we learn by interacting with the family, observing the child (via play-based observation and/or shadowing), and reviewing teacher recommendations.
Are recommendations required?
Unless the student is applying for Early Childhood and has not had a teacher, recommendations are required. Only one recommendation is required for students applying to Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 4, but recommendations from both a language arts teacher and a math teacher are required for students applying for admission to Grades 5-8.
How many applications do you receive each year?
We typically receive approximately 100 applications per year for approximately 65-70 available spaces.
Is there an entrance exam?
Students applying for grades 2 -8 will take a portion of our Educational Records Bureau test during a shadow visit.
How can you assess children who are so young?
The assessments provide indications primarily of developmental readiness in young children. We realize the assessments are not absolute predictors of future performance, thus they are only one piece of the admission process.
What makes a child a good candidate for admission?
We look for students who are sociable, willing to learn, polite, and who demonstrate the basic skill sets expected of peers of the same age.
What if my child has not been in preschool/daycare?
This is not a major concern for us. We have a number of students who did not attend preschool or daycare.
Do siblings or legacies have a better chance of being admitted?
If all other factors are equal, we would be very inclined to offer admission to the sibling or legacy child. We do not, however, have an official policy regarding the admission of siblings and/or legacies.
What is the age cutoff?
Our cutoff is June 1. So, a child entering Pre-Kindergarten should be at least 3 years old by June 1.
Can I visit classrooms during the application process?
Yes. We actively encourage families to visit our school for a tour, during which you will have plenty of time to visit classrooms and interact with students and teachers.
How much does it cost?
Tuition for Lower Division (Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 4) is $13,950 for 2012-2013. Tuition for Middle Division (Grades 5) is $14,160. Tuition for Middle Division (Grades 6 - 8) is $14,780. Tuition includes books, fees, and the hot lunch program.
What other fees are required?
There is a fee of $50 per sport for students who participate in athletics. Additionally, families are responsible for the purchase of the school uniform (cost varies) and gym uniforms ($20 per uniform; only required for Grades 1-8).
Does St. Richard's offer financial aid?
Yes. During 2012-2013, St. Richard's awarded nearly $600,000 in need-based financial aid. Families can contact the Business Office at St. Richard's for additional information about applying for financial aid.
Are there any merit scholarships?
Since all students who attend St. Richard's are worthy of academic recognition, we do not offer merit-based scholarships for new students. There are two small scholarship awards in Middle Division; otherwise, all financial aid at St. Richard's is awarded on the basis of financial need.
We are applying for financial aid. Does that impact our child's chances for admission?
No. The admission process at St. Richard's is "need-blind," meaning that the admission process does not consider financial aid.
Where are you located?
Our address is 33 East 33rd Street in Indianapolis. This is just east of Meridian Street on 33rd Street. Click here for a map and directions.
Is the location safe?
Yes. Just as would be the case when going to any public place, you should be aware of your surroundings while at St. Richard's. All doors and gates are locked during the school day, and we have a security team that is here when our students/families are here during the school day as well as before and after school.
Do your students wear uniforms?
Students in PreKindergarten do not wear uniforms, but children in Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten wear a relaxed uniform (polo shirt). Students in Grades 1-8 do wear uniforms. Boys wear grey slacks, an oxford shirt (blue or white), a St. Richard's tie, and a green blazer. Girls in Lower Division wear a plaid jumper with a white blouse and blazer. Girls in Middle Division wear a plaid skirt, white blouse and blazer. Appropriate socks and shoes are required.
What if I need to bring my child to school early or have my child stay late?
Extended care is available at an additional cost.
Before Care (7:00-8:00 a.m.): a daily rate of $4 per child will be charged.
After Care (3:17-6:00 p.m.): $8.00 flat rate will be charged.
Click here to learn more.
Do you offer childcare on holidays or breaks for parents who have to work?
Yes. We offer childcare on most days on which school is not in session. There is a cost for this service.
Is there a community service requirement?
Developmentally appropriate community service opportunities abound, but we do not require a set number of community service hours. In 2003, St. Richard's became the first school in the state to pilot and then to partner with the Center on Philanthropy and what is now known as The LEAGUE: Empowered by Learning To Give project, a program that teaches voluntary action for the common good.
Do you have a bullying policy?
St. Richard's employs a "zero-tolerance" policy against bullying and/or physical violence. Bullying of any sort is deemed completely unacceptable in our School community.
How do parents get involved?
Each parent is a member of the Parent Organization (PO), which serves as a direct link between parents and the St. Richard's administration and Board. Additionally, parents are encouraged to observe their children's classrooms and become involved in the School through volunteerism.
What is the average class size?
The average class size is approximately 16 students.
What field trips do your students take?
Students at all grade levels go on developmentally appropriate field trips. Recent Early Childhood field trips have included apple orchards, llama farms, area parks and university campuses, the Indianapolis Zoo, and the Indianapolis Children's Museum. Lower Division field trips have included the Indianapolis Children's Museum, the Indianapolis Zoo, Conner Prairie, the President Benjamin Harrison Home, the Eiteljorg Museum, Vincennes and Holliday Park. Middle Division field trips have included Clowes Hall, Indiana University, Waycross (retreats), Indianapolis Repertory Theatre, Corydon, Washington, D.C., and the Tutankhamun exhibit at the Field Museum in Chicago.
Which foreign languages do you offer?
All students study French from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 5. Students in Middle Division (Grades 6-8) either continue the study of French, or they move to Spanish. Additionally, all Middle Division students study Latin.
Why do St. Richard's students study French?
St. Richard's is modeled after a British parish day school, and such an education often includes the study of French. The French program at St. Richard's is among the best in the nation, and our students often earn state and national honors on the French exam. Additionally, you might like to know that French is the second most frequently used language of the Internet and the second most frequently taught language worldwide after English.
At what age do students begin to study Music, Art and Foreign Language?
Students study Music, Art and Foreign Language at all grade levels, beginning with Pre-Kindergarten.
What does the religion/divinity curriculum include?
Middle Division students take Divinity class. Students in Grade 5 attend Divinity one day each week and focus on the ministry and teachings of Jesus, as found in the Four Gospels. Students in Grade 6 attend Divinity two days each week and study Hebrew and Christian Scriptures. Students in Grade 7 attend Divinity two days each week and study Religions of the World. Students in Grade 8 attend Divinity one day each week and study Faith and Justice, American Religions, and Faith at Work.
How will I know how my child is performing?
Progress reports (Pre-Kindergarten-Grade 2) and Grade Reports (Grades 3-8) are mailed to the parents three times per year at the end of each term. These reports will also include comments from the classroom teachers and specialty teacher, if needed.
How can I contact teachers?
All teachers have an email address and telephone extension. Parents should feel free to contact teachers as necessary, keeping in mind that an immediate response might not be possible due to teaching commitments on a daily basis.
How much homework does the typical student have each night?
The amount of homework will increase each year, beginning with approximately 10 minutes per day for Grade 1 and increasing to approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours in Middle Division.
Is academic support available for a student who is struggling?
Yes. While the student can get support from his/her teacher during class and/or during help sessions before or after school, we also have a Resource teacher who is able to provide support for a struggling student, as well as enrichment for a student who is excelling SAT.
Is enrichment available for a student who is excelling?
Yes. The classroom teacher often is the best source for enrichment, as our teachers are well versed in teaching to multiple ability levels and intelligences. Additionally, our Resource teacher can provide enrichment activities for a student who is excelling.
Is technology readily available?
In addition to computers and iPads in many of the Lower Division and Middle Division classrooms, our library also boasts a computer lab. Our website also allows for a valuable link between parents and teachers as well as between students and teachers.
Is St. Richard's accredited?
St. Richard's School is accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS) and is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES) and numerous other organizations committed to enhancing the educational experience for young people.
What is the average tenure of your teachers?
On average, our teachers have 6 years of experience at St. Richard's and approximately 12 years of teaching experience.
What schools do your graduates attend?
St. Richard's graduates are among the most prepared graduates you will find. They attend some of the best area high schools, as well as boarding schools around the country. Schools most commonly attended by our graduates include (in alphabetical order) Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School, Cathedral High School, Culver Military Academy, International School of Indiana, North Central High School, Park Tudor School and University High School.
