Additional support for families at the K–8 School at Columbia

The following email was sent to select Officers on Saturday, October 28:

Dear fellow members of the Columbia community,

In my September 22 message, I shared my excitement about welcoming Dr. Sonya Somerville as our new Head of School at The School at Columbia (TSC), the University’s vibrant and diverse K–8 community that serves students drawn equally from the families of University affiliates and the local neighborhood. Academic excellence has been a hallmark of Dr. Somerville’s three-decade career; she most recently served as Assistant Superintendent in the School District of Philadelphia, gaining federal recognition for accomplishments across her portfolio of schools.

Today I write with additional exciting news about The School.

I am very pleased to share that we are increasing tuition support at TSC for Columbia families. Columbia families at The School have traditionally received 50% off tuition through the University’s Primary Tuition Scholarship (PTS). Starting in the 2024–2025 school year, Columbia affiliates who are PTS-eligible will receive a 60% tuition discount at TSC, and families with multiple children enrolled at TSC will receive an additional 5% discount for each sibling enrollee after the first child.

To facilitate family interest, we are also extending The School’s inquiry window, the first step in its application process, to December 1 for Columbia families.

We encourage all faculty members and other affiliates who may be interested in The School to apply. Based on demographic shifts mirrored in area independent schools, there are currently seats available in all grades. Detailed information about The School and its admissions process and timeline can be found on the School’s admissions page. Please reach out to [email protected] to learn more.

The School at Columbia University is an invaluable part of the Columbia community and a special place for children to learn and flourish. It is also at the start of an exciting new era under the leadership of Dr. Sonya Somerville. I am pleased to announce this meaningful enhancement in support for our Columbia families with K–8 schooling needs.

Warmly,

Dennis A. Mitchell, DDS, MPH (he/him)
Interim Provost
Professor of Dental Medicine