History and Quick Facts

For over a century, St. Paul Academy and Summit School has been guided by the principle of academic excellence.

The coeducational school was formed from the 1969 merger of St. Paul Academy, founded in 1900 for boys, and Summit School, founded in 1917 for girls. SPA enrolls 870 students in grades K through  12, including 16% receiving need-based financial aid and 24% students of color.

Accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States, SPA is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools, the Cum Laude Society, The College Board, and the National Association for College Admission Counseling, and is a founding member of the Association of College Counselors in Independent Schools.        

Enrollment

Overall: 870 students from Kindergarten through 12th grade. Average class size is 15; student/faculty ratio is 9:1.

  • Lower School: 275
  • Middle School: 240
  • Upper School: 355

Student Body Diversity

The board of trustees recognizes that diversity is an asset that strengthens the ultimate purpose of education by encouraging academic achievement, fostering the essential value of respect, and preparing students to live and work in a global community.

  • Overall School Diversity: 24%
  • Lower School: 31%
  • Middle School: 28%
  • Upper School: 16%

Costs

Tuition for 2008–2009 school year (includes lunch and activities fee):

  • Lower School: $ 20,620
  • Middle School: $ 21,520
  • Upper School: $ 22,410

Financial Aid

SPA awards over $2 million yearly in financial aid to our families. Approximately 16% of our students receive an award. The average grant covers 69% of tuition.

Faculty

SPA employs a diverse and motivated group of teachers who help students mature, manage their time, and become actively involved in the process of learning. We have a well-trained and experienced faculty: our 102 teachers average 21 years of teaching at SPA and 75% have advanced degrees. Endowed funds for curriculum and faculty development, and a sabbatical program, support ongoing professional enrichment and growth for SPA teachers.