Overview

Since 1982, The Banner School has offered a strong liberal arts education for students in kindergarten through grade eight.  The Banner School is now an independent school comprised of a Preschool for 3, 4, and some 5 year olds (established in 2008-09), a Primary School for grades K-4, and a Middle School for grades 5-8. Banner offers families a choice beyond the public school system. Its mission is to provide an academically challenging curriculum in a secure environment. Banner strives to motivate students to achieve to the best of their abilities while simultaneously stimulating a lifelong love of learning. Banner encourages a strong school-family partnership, individual self-worth and respect for others. Banner strives to graduate responsible individuals who will contribute to society. Reflecting the diversity in today’s society and our student body, Banner provides an international education and global perspective through the study of various cultures, societies, histories, and peoples of the world.

Philosophy
The Banner School believes in the dignity and worth of each student, and his/her unlimited potential for growth. Students thrive in a disciplined and challenging learning environment that nurtures and sustains their inquisitiveness. A strong family-school partnership fosters a positive educational experience for each child. Students’ needs are best met through differentiated teaching styles, resulting in independent learners who not only master basic skills but demonstrate original thinking and problem solving. In addition to the core academic subjects, students are actively involved in the arts, foreign language study, physical activity, and technology. Through an emphasis on tolerance and respect for differences, students are prepared to function successfully in today’s diverse society.

Curriculum
The Banner School offers students a rigorous and challenging liberal arts curriculum designed to acquire basic skills while encouraging higher level critical and analytical thinking skills. Our faculty expands the boundaries of traditional studies with interdisciplinary subject matter that is explored beyond the classroom - through published works, at school assemblies, and in the community. Responding to the increasing need for international awareness and understanding, The Banner School offers both Spanish and French foreign language instruction to students at all grade levels. Since the 2006/2007 school year, Chinese, provided by Life and Discovery, is offerred as an extra curricular language as well. Art, music and drama, which stimulate creative expression and enhance academic performance, also have an important role in our curriculum. Computer use is integrated into our curriculum to help students excel in an increasingly technological world.

Accreditation
The Banner School is approved by the Maryland State Department of Education and accredited by the Association of Independent Maryland Schools (AIMS), a statewide association consisting of over 100 private, independent elementary and college preparatory schools.

Diversity
Our student body reflects the ethnic and religious diversity of today's world. At The Banner School, diversity is fully embraced. Students are taught to see themselves as part of a whole community, not segmented by ethnicity or economics. We integrate the cultural diversity found at Banner into our programs, helping to give students a broader understanding of the world.

Extended Care
Extended Care provides a convenient option for parents whose schedules don't permit early morning or after school supervision. Our Extended Care program is made available to all students.

Financial Aid
Financial aid is available to all qualified applicants. To apply, obtain an application form from our Business Office, and return it to the FACTS Tuition Management Program by April 1, for consideration for the following school year.