TK to Grade 8 Admissions
Finding your people
If Tessie feels like a place where your young person may thrive, this page explains what happens next: how to apply, what materials we request, how we determine grade placement, and the ways families and young people can experience Tessie during the admissions process.
Because gifted young people often develop asynchronously, our review considers academic readiness alongside social-emotional development, independence, classroom stamina, learning preferences, and support needs. We want to identify the program and grade placement in which each young person can engage deeply, contribute to the community, and grow with confidence.
Learning With and From One Another
Being surrounded by curious, engaged peers changes what is possible. In Primary and Middle School, students introduce one another to new questions, interests, perspectives, and ways of thinking. They learn to contribute their ideas without taking over, listen with purpose, and remain open to changing their thinking. Students also learn to recognize and support one another’s strengths. Someone who feels confident in one area may help a classmate, then rely on that classmate’s insight in another. These everyday experiences build collaboration, empathy, flexibility, intellectual humility, and the confidence to ask for help.
How the Admissions Journey Works
Our TK–8 admissions process is designed to help us get to know each applicant as a learner and as a person. Families complete an application and submit the required supporting materials, which may include school records, a teacher recommendation, and a cognitive assessment. Applicants also participate in an age-appropriate visit or shadow experience so we can better understand their curiosity, readiness, interests, and connection with our community.
Age Eligibility
Students applying to Transitional Kindergarten should be 4 years old, and students applying to Kindergarten should be 5 years old, by August 31 of the school year they will enter. Please contact the Admissions Team with questions about birthday eligibility.
TK–8 Program Highlights
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Integrated, project-based Journeys connecting humanities, science, literacy, history, and the arts
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Flexible math and literacy groupings that provide an appropriate level of challenge
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Social-emotional learning woven throughout the school experience
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Regular learning and exploration at our Nature Campus
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Art, music, drama, innovation, and library classes led by specialist educators
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Speech and debate opportunities beginning in Grade 4
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Student choice through Wise Choice in the early grades and Explorations in Grades 4–8
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A supportive community where gifted learners can develop curiosity, confidence, and independence
Tuition
Tuition for the 2026–2027 school year is:
- Preschool – Transitional Kindergarten: $44,500
- Kindergarten – Grade 1: $44,900
- Grades 2–5: $45,050
- Grades 6–8: $46,150
Non-Discrimination Policy
Tessellations admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation.
Tessellations does not discriminate on the basis of these factors in the administration of its educational policies, financial award programs, or any other school-administered programs.
Each year, tuition is reviewed and adjusted thoughtfully to support continued investment in exceptional faculty, program development, and the overall student experience.
Tuition at Tessellations sustains the core elements of our educational model, including:
Small class sizes
Talented, experienced faculty and staff
Ongoing professional development
Experiential and interdisciplinary learning
Social-emotional development and executive
functioning supportOutdoor education and connection with nature
We are committed to financial sustainability while remaining mission-aligned in our support of gifted learners. Financial aid is available to qualified families and is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Contact Admissions
admissions@tessellations.school
408-372-6187
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If Tessie feels like a place where your young person may thrive, this page explains what happens next: how to apply, what materials we request, how we determine grade placement, and the ways families and young people can experience Tessie during the admissions process.
Because gifted young people often develop asynchronously, our review considers academic readiness alongside social-emotional development, independence, classroom stamina, learning preferences, and support needs. We want to identify the program and grade placement in which each young person can engage deeply, contribute to the community, and grow with confidence.
Come Experience the Tessie Magic
The best way to understand Tessellations is to spend time here. Explore our classrooms and learning spaces, see how students engage through inquiry, collaboration, and meaningful challenge, and meet educators who understand gifted development from TK through Grade 8.
Start a Conversation
Come meet us, share what you are noticing, and learn more about the Tessellations Children’s Center. Your family’s Tessie journey may begin here.
Contact Admissions
admissions@tessellations.school
408-372-6187
