The Cathedral School of St. John the Divine: A Leader in K-8 Education on the Upper West Side

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Tucked within the 11-acre campus of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, the Cathedral School has long been regarded as one of New York City’s premier independent schools. For more than 120 years, families from across the city – and particularly on the Upper West Side – have chosen Cathedral for its unique combination of academic rigor, differentiated support, and a deep commitment to developing students of strong scholarship and strong character.

At Cathedral, excellence begins with a clear set of Seven Core Values: courage, cooperation, integrity, kindness, passion for learning, responsibility, and respect. These principles guide not only how students learn, but also how they engage with one another and their community. Cathedral’s approach is rooted in the belief that true education nurtures both intellect and character, preparing children not just to succeed in the classroom, but to lead with purpose in the world.

Academically, Cathedral stands out for its rigorous and balanced curriculum. Mathematics is taught with a focus on problem-solving, critical thinking, and real-world application, ensuring that students are not only proficient but confident in tackling complex challenges. Spanish, French, and Latin language instruction is equally impressive: all students begin with Spanish in Kindergarten, and uniquely, all students study Latin starting in 6th Grade. This foundation builds linguistic flexibility, strengthens analytical skills, and deepens cultural understanding.

Another defining strength of Cathedral’s program is the Arts – from visual arts to drama and music, students are encouraged to express themselves creatively and to develop an appreciation for artistic traditions. The result is an academic community where intellectual curiosity and creativity are equally celebrated.

Small class sizes and a low student-to-teacher ratio allow Cathedral to offer differentiated learning, meeting students where they are and instilling a passion for learning that enables students to reach their fullest potential. Teachers know their students well and provide the kind of individualized support and academic challenge that is increasingly rare in today’s educational landscape.

Yet what truly distinguishes Cathedral is the School’s dual emphasis on academics and character. “We believe the two go hand in hand,” says Head of School Erica Corbin. “Our graduates leave Cathedral not only as strong students, but as thoughtful, empathetic, and responsive leaders who care about making a difference.” This philosophy is reflected in everything from community service initiatives to the everyday ways students are encouraged to practice kindness, advocacy, and responsibility.

The outcomes speak for themselves. Cathedral graduates consistently go on to attend top-ranked high schools in the country, excelling in a wide range of disciplines and carrying with them the habits of mind and heart instilled during their formative years. Graduate families often describe Cathedral as the place where their children were both challenged and cherished, pushed to grow while supported every step of the way.

Cathedral’s dedication to uplifting and supporting its community is central to the school’s mission. As part of this commitment, Cathedral continues to offer Columbia University employees a special tuition discount, available alongside Columbia’s Primary Tuition Scholarship and Cathedral’s need-based financial aid programs. Many Columbia families, seeking both academic excellence and a nurturing environment for their children, have found a home at Cathedral. The school is proud to partner with its neighbors in their educational journey.

Cathedral is an inclusive community that warmly welcomes families of all faiths, backgrounds, and family structures. The school has long honored and celebrated a wide range of religious and cultural traditions – from Hanukkah in the fall, Kwanzaa in the winter to Easter Evensong, Earth Day, and Passover Seder in the spring, followed by Pride Month in June. Everyone belongs at Cathedral.

New families are invited to experience Cathedral firsthand. Open Houses will be held on October 16 and November 1, offering parents the chance to tour the 11-acre Upper West Side campus, meet faculty, and see the school in action. Families are strongly encouraged to register early to ensure access.

In a city filled with excellent schools, the Cathedral School of St. John the Divine shines as a singular choice for families seeking a rigorous, well-rounded education in a nurturing environment. For parents who want their children to develop both the intellect and the character needed to lead tomorrow’s world, Cathedral is not only the best K-8 school in New York City – it is the place where future leaders are made.