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.
Application Requirements
- Confirm eligibility: Submit an IQ test (required for applicants to TK or above) and the completed Student Learner Traits Form.
- Complete the application: Submit the Student Information Form, Student Video, and any additional materials listed in your Ravenna checklist for your child’s grade, including school records and teacher recommendations.
- Participate in the admissions process: Complete an age-appropriate student visit or shadow experience and a parent interview.
Age Eligibility
Students entering Transitional Kindergarten should be 4 years old by the first day of school. Students entering Kindergarten should be 5 years old by the first day of school. 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 2027–2028 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
Financial aid is available to qualified families and is determined on a case-by-case basis.
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 and learn more about our TK–Grade 8 programs. Our admissions team can help you decide on the next step for your family.
Contact Admissions
admissions@tessellations.school
408-372-6187
