Harding Academy: An Overview of Tuition, Financial Aid, and Educational Value

Harding Academy, located in the Colonial Acres neighborhood of Memphis, TN, is a top-ranked Tennessee school that serves students from Nursery/Preschool through 12th grade. With a mission "to teach students to love others as Christ loves them, to think creatively and learn with open minds, and to live courageously to the glory of God," the academy offers a comprehensive educational experience. This article delves into the tuition structure, financial aid opportunities, and the overall value proposition of Harding Academy.

Academic Excellence and a Holistic Approach

Harding Academy distinguishes itself with a commitment to academic excellence and a nurturing environment. The school's motto, "Love Others. Think Creatively," encapsulates its dedication to fostering both intellectual and personal growth. With an enrollment of 675 students and a selective acceptance rate, Harding Academy provides a focused and supportive learning atmosphere.

The curriculum across all grade levels emphasizes creative thinking, problem-solving, and a deep understanding of core subjects. Teaching methods include independent exploration, group activities, and teacher-directed presentations. Students in Upper School take math, science, English, Bible, and social studies each year.

Lower School (Grades K-5)

The Lower School curriculum is characterized by high expectations and diverse learning experiences. Specialized teachers provide customized learning experiences in visual arts, performing arts, Spanish, physical fitness, and library. The school uses technology to enrich students’ daily learning experiences and to teach them how to be responsible, productive members in our digital society.

Upper School (Grades 9-12)

The teenage years are an important time in students’ lives. They are exploring their interests, learning to think for themselves, and dreaming about the future. The Upper School curriculum helps students further develop into creative thinkers and problem solvers while preparing them for college.

Tuition and Fees: Understanding the Investment

Understanding the tuition structure is a crucial step for families considering Harding Academy. For grades 9-12, the tuition is $17,595. It's important to recognize that tuition represents a significant investment in a child's future, encompassing not only academic instruction but also a range of extracurricular activities, personalized attention, and a supportive community.

Beyond the Sticker Price

The stated tuition figure is just the starting point. The cost of attendance is an estimate of combined annual costs. It’s not your bill. It just gives you an idea of the overall costs and determines the amount of financial aid you can receive. Additional expenses such as activity fees, textbooks, personal supplies, and the optional lunch program are not included in the base tuition.

Parents should also factor in potential hidden costs such as uniforms and other extras.

Financial Aid: Making Harding Accessible

Harding Academy is committed to making its education accessible to families from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. To be eligible for Financial Aid, families must demonstrate a financial need, which is the difference between the school’s tuition and fees and what a family can reasonably contribute. The school offers financial aid to both new and returning families who demonstrate need.

The Clarity Application Process

The Clarity Financial Aid application is available online. Families submit financial information and required tax forms through Clarity’s secure online application.

Read also: Harding University Costs

Need is determined through:

Clarity: Collects and analyzes financial data to provide a comprehensive overview of each family’s financial situation. Families are also asked to provide a good-faith estimate of their maximum ability to pay. Clarity generates a report that is shared with the Financial Aid Committee.
Financial Aid Committee: A confidential and anonymous group selected for their discretion, judgment, and understanding of the school’s mission.
Combined review: Clarity’s overview is shared with the Committee to support consistent and equitable decisions.

The award amount is reflected in the enrollment contract. Families who wish to appeal may submit a written request to the Head of School. The appeal should explain why the award is not sufficient and include any additional details. The Financial Aid Committee makes award decisions independently of admission decisions.

Harding asks that families do not share their award information with others.

Extracurricular Activities and Enrichment Programs

Harding Academy offers a wide array of extracurricular activities, with 28 options available to students. Students have the opportunity to explore their interests and develop their talents outside the classroom. The school offers 13 sports.

A Supportive and Inclusive Community

Harding Academy admits students of any race, color, religion, gender, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. The school prides itself on fostering a supportive and inclusive community where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Read also: Building Connections at Harding

Little Harding: Early Childhood Education

Little Harding serves children from 6 weeks through Junior Kindergarten. At Little Harding, the school is committed to providing a safe, loving environment where children are taught about God’s love and encouraged to explore and learn. Little Harding encourages curiosity and exploration through hands-on activities. The Little Harding curriculum is distinguished by high expectations and diverse learning experiences. Teaching methods include independent exploration, group activities, and teacher-directed presentations. Children work individually or in small groups to design projects that reflect their exploration and findings. All aspects of the curriculum are designed to help children grow in their God-given abilities.

Thrive Program

Thrive is Harding’s academic differentiation program for all students in K-12. We provide extra supports or challenges based on students’ individual needs to help them thrive in every class. In lower school, Thrive time is built into the school day.

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