Hackley School

Business Details

Hackley School: Inspiring Character and Scholarship in Tarrytown, NY

Hackley School has been inspiring students to 'Go forth and spread beauty and light' for over 120 years. Founded in 1899 by philanthropist Frances Hackley, the school has evolved into a coeducational K-12 institution serving 850 students on a 285-acre campus in Tarrytown, New York. Our educational philosophy centers on character development, academic excellence, and community service, grounded in four core values: 'Enter here to be and find a friend,' 'United, we help one another,' 'Character is higher than intellect,' and 'Go forth and spread beauty and light.' With a student-teacher ratio of 7:1 and average class sizes of 16, we provide personalized attention while maintaining rigorous college-preparatory standards.

Our faculty fosters intellectual curiosity through innovative programs like the Center for the Creative Arts and Technology, Independent Science Research Program, and global education initiatives. The school's commitment to inclusivity dates to its founding, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds within a nonsectarian environment. Hackley graduates emerge as compassionate leaders prepared to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world.

Services

College Preparatory Curriculum Lower School Program Middle School Program Upper School Program 5-Day Boarding Program

Highlights and features

Established in 1899 with century-old commitment to character education
Student-teacher ratio of 7:1 ensures personalized academic attention
Core values guide ethical leadership and community responsibility
Innovative programs in STEM, arts, and global education
Diverse, inclusive community spanning 20+ towns and countries

Associations and certifications

501(c)(3)

Website

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Services

College Preparatory Curriculum

Our rigorous college-preparatory program challenges students K-12 with advanced coursework and interdisciplinary studies. Faculty emphasize critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and ethical reasoning through small-class instruction. Graduates consistently gain admission to top-tier universities with strong scholarship profiles.

Lower School Program

Kindergarten through grade 4 program focuses on foundational academic skills within a nurturing environment. Curriculum integrates character education, collaborative learning, and creative expression. Specialized teachers support literacy, mathematics, science, and performing arts development.

Middle School Program

Grades 5-8 program balances academic challenge with social-emotional growth. Courses cultivate intellectual curiosity through project-based learning and technology integration. Extracurricular opportunities develop leadership skills and community responsibility.

Upper School Program

College-level curriculum for grades 9-12 features AP courses, independent research, and specialized electives. Emphasis on critical analysis, college counseling, and ethical leadership prepares students for academic and personal success beyond graduation.

5-Day Boarding Program

Upper School boarding program offers structured residential experience with academic support and community building. Students develop independence while participating in evening study hours, weekend activities, and leadership development opportunities.

People

Charles Franklin

Head of School

Charles Franklin serves as Hackley's 13th Head of School, bringing decades of educational leadership experience. He champions community values and character development while overseeing academic innovation and institutional growth.

Cyndy Jean

Associate Head of School

Dr. Cyndy Jean leads Middle School operations and community inclusivity initiatives. With extensive experience in educational administration, she focuses on student well-being and faculty development across divisions.

Andy King

Director of the Upper School

Andy King oversees Upper School academics and student life. He cultivates a rigorous yet supportive environment that emphasizes college preparation, ethical leadership, and intellectual exploration.

Questions

What grades does Hackley School serve?

Hackley School provides education for students from Kindergarten through Grade 12, including a 5-day Upper School boarding program.

What are Hackley's core educational values?

Our four core values guide all programs: 'Enter here to be and find a friend,' 'United, we help one another,' 'Character is higher than intellect,' and 'Go forth and spread beauty and light.'

How does Hackley support student development beyond academics?

We offer extensive arts programs, 30+ athletic teams, community service initiatives, and global education opportunities to develop well-rounded individuals.

What is Hackley's student-teacher ratio?

Hackley maintains a 7:1 student-teacher ratio with average class sizes of 16 across all divisions.

Does Hackley offer financial aid?

Hackley provides need-based financial aid packages to ensure access for qualified students from diverse economic backgrounds.

How does Hackley prepare students for college?

Our college counseling program begins in Grade 9, offering personalized guidance, application support, and preparation for academic and personal success in higher education.

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Reviews (5)

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A. T.

Aug 11, 2018 Report

I contacted the Hackley Alumni Relations Office for a reason I do not feel like getting into now on yelp. It was all innocent enough. I spoke with Margie, in charge of Alumni Connections who told me to call back on Friday when she would have more time to speak with me and handle my issue. I remember feeling as if it can be handled right then and there when I explained it to her, and it wasn't so complicated. In fact the whole thing would have taken all but three minutes no matter how we resolved it. I left not one but two voice messages for her on that Friday at her request and she never

Gary B.

May 20, 2018 Report

I have a different perspective to add from as I worked in an outside contract position here for 4 plus years. This is one of the finest institutions of learning I have ever known/ seen or heard of. There is nothing but top notch staff from the great teachers in all grades, to the administration and business office and even reaching out to buildings and grounds. The people here really care about their community and success of their students and they have so many programs that ensure that. The Hackley Parents Association is loaded with top line quality people and their intensity to help with school

Michelle B.

May 05, 2018 Report

Both of my children are in middle school and have been at Hackley since Kindergarten. Although many people think the curriculum is rigorous, the students are well prepared for the academics in university and are able to organize and perform well on their own. The campus is beautiful but most importantly the teachers are amazing educators who genuinely care for the students and often have their own children in the school. My husband and I could not be happier with Hackley.

Lizbeth Patino

Jan 24, 2018 Report

It is amazing it has a huge cafeteria with a lot of food options, it has fun entertaining classes, and it has incredible teachers along with it.

Geocoded Art

Sep 23, 2016 Report

Painted by Robert Havell Jr.(1793-1878) prolific painter of wildlife studies, his landscape work is nearly entirely of the Hudson River and Valley. These works generally showed mankind at home in the bounteous land, with fair skies portending an abundant future. In this view the River is busy with traffic, for business and pleasure, and the shaft of sunlight is a sure sign of Providence.