Founded in 1919 by progressive educator Helen Parkhurst, The Dalton School is an independent K–12 school on Manhattan’s Upper East Side known for its pioneering educational model, deep commitment to intellectual exploration, and close-knit community. With around 1,300 students across its First Program (K–3), Middle School (4–8), and High School (9–12), Dalton fosters curiosity, independence, and collaboration through its unique “Dalton Plan,” a structure that has inspired schools around the world.

From its early days, Dalton has prioritized personalized learning and student agency—a legacy that continues today through a dynamic curriculum, vibrant arts and STEM offerings, and a robust advising and house system that ensures each student is deeply known and guided throughout their journey.

Campus & Community

Located on the Upper East Side, Dalton’s urban campus is composed of interconnected buildings at 87th and 91st Streets. A recent expansion added over 12,000 square feet of space to support the school’s growing STEAM and wellness initiatives.

‍Key Facts and Figures:

• Student body: Approx. 1,300 students, with about 130–135 students per high school grade (Grades 9–12)
• Student diversity: In 2023–24, 44% of Dalton students identified as students of color
• Student–teacher ratio: Around 7:1, supporting highly individualized learning
• House system: High school students are assigned to one of 12 “Houses,” creating a small community within the larger school for advising, social events, and community-building

Dalton’s student culture blends academic seriousness with joyful experimentation. Students are encouraged to ask hard questions, build original projects, and shape school life through student government and initiatives like the Equity and Belonging Council.

Academics & Curriculum

Dalton’s curriculum is guided by the Dalton Plan, which includes three pillars: Assignment, Laboratory, and House. This model empowers students to take ownership of their learning by blending structured coursework (Assignment) with scheduled time for one-on-one or small-group work with teachers (Laboratory).

Students must complete a full college-preparatory sequence, including four years of English, math, science, and history, as well as a foreign language and the arts.

‍Academic highlights include:

• No APs, but 300+ rigorous courses including honors and advanced seminars in STEM, humanities, arts, and interdisciplinary fields
• Capstone-style electives like Race and the Law, Machine Learning, and Modern American Drama
• Independent study opportunities and robust research mentorship
• World language offerings from K–12 in Spanish, French, Latin, and Mandarin
• Unique courses in ethics, philosophy, coding, architecture, and global studies

Extracurriculars & Student Life

Dalton students bring their passions to life outside the classroom through over 80 clubs and activities, ranging from Code Club and Speech & Debate to Feminist Coalition and Environmental Action League. The school hosts three student publications, including The Daltonian, a well-regarded newspaper that offers real journalism experience.

‍Athletics are robust, with 41 varsity and JV teams across three seasons, competing in the NYC-based Athletic Association of Independent Schools (AAIS) and NYSAIS leagues. Dalton encourages participation and wellness at all levels of ability, with a focus on teamwork and balance.

Dalton also has a vibrant visual and performing arts program, with annual productions, gallery exhibitions, and music recitals.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Tuition for 2024–25 is approximately $63,970. Dalton meets 100% of demonstrated financial need and is need-blind in admissions for Kindergarten. Roughly 22% of students receive aid, and additional financial support is available for school-related expenses such as laptops, books, trips, and meals.

Outdoor & Experiential Learning

While Dalton doesn’t have a dedicated outdoor campus like Horace Mann’s Dorr Lab, it offers grade-level trips, international exchange programs, and service learning integrated into coursework. In high school, students can participate in Dalton Global Initiatives, which include immersive travel and cross-cultural dialogue programs.

The Senior Year capstones allow for passion projects, internships, or research under faculty guidance—a culminating moment of the school’s inquiry-driven approach.

Key Takeaways for Parents & Students

Progressive pedagogy: Dalton is ideal for students who thrive in an open-ended, project-based, and reflective academic environment. The Dalton Plan teaches independence, time management, and intellectual curiosity.

Vibrant community: With a student-driven club ecosystem and an advising system rooted in care, Dalton fosters deep belonging. Each student is part of a “House,” where academic and emotional support go hand in hand.

Top-tier academics: While the school eschews APs, its courses are among the most rigorous in the country. Colleges know Dalton students arrive exceptionally prepared for advanced study.

Equity and access: A significant percentage of students receive generous financial aid. Equity and belonging are ongoing priorities reflected in programming and leadership.

Is Dalton a Good Fit?

Dalton is a top choice for families seeking a progressive yet rigorous education grounded in self-direction, deep inquiry, and community. If your student is self-motivated, curious, and excited by the idea of shaping their own learning experience in a supportive and intellectually engaged environment, Dalton might be an excellent match.

Want to Explore Further?

• Program of Studies: detailed course offerings
• Tuition & Financial Aid: current costs and assistance overview
• Diversity & Belonging: inclusion philosophy and data
• College Office: college counseling and outcomes

At AtomicMind, we specialize in helping families discover and apply to top-tier independent schools like Dalton. Our team can support you through school list building, interview coaching, and crafting an application that highlights your child’s unique strengths. Reach out to learn how we can help you navigate this journey with confidence.