Focus 

Tradition, scholarship, leadership

Day fees 2024/25 

$64,100

Pupils 

1,805

Ages

3–18

Spear’s Review

Horace Mann School was founded by Nicholas Murray Butler in 1887 as a coeducational experimental and developmental unit of Columbia University’s Teachers College. In 1947 it became an independent day school for boys in grades 7–12, and it is now coeducational from nursery to 12th grade. 

Head Thomas M. Kelly says the school is proud of its heritage and is guided by its traditional values: the life of the mind; mature behaviour; mutual respect; a secure and healthful environment; and a balance between individual achievement and a caring community.

With the nursery based on the Upper East Side and the lower, middle and upper divisions set in the Bronx, this city school strives to ‘prepare a diverse community of students to lead great and giving lives’.

Academics

In 2024, the average SAT score was 1426. 

In 2024. the average ACT score was 33. 

University and college destinations 

Between 2022 and 2024, 125 graduating students attended Ivy League universities.

Head teacher

Thomas M. Kelly has been head of Horace Mann for almost 20 years. Kelly, who also teachers ethics at the school, has prioritised increasing diversity among Horace Mann staff and students, encouraging students to see issues through what he calls ‘a global lens’. Prior to joining Horace Mann, Kelly worked in public schools as a superintendent, high school principal and director of special education. 

Admissions

In addition to completing an online application, students – depending on their age – take standardised tests and attend an interview. They are also asked to submit academic records, a personal statement (written by parents for younger students), an essay (for older students) and teacher recommendations.

Accessibility

JFK Airport: 1 hour 

Location

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