Doane Stuart School

The Doane Stuart School is a private, co-educational college preparatory institution located in Rensselaer, New York. It serves students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, with a significant focus on fostering intellectual curiosity, academic rigor, and personal growth.

History and Mission

Doane Stuart has been in operation for over 150 years, shaping students to become global citizens who pursue lives of meaning and purpose. Its mission emphasizes providing an unparalleled college preparatory education while instilling the joy of discovery, fostering social responsibility, encouraging strong personal faith, and challenging students to become their best selves.

Interfaith Identity

Doane Stuart is notable for its non-denominational and interfaith approach. The school celebrates and teaches about diverse religious beliefs and non-belief systems, promoting global understanding and cultural fluency. This approach is intended to equip students with the ability to navigate a multicultural world with ease and empathy. The student body represents over 20 different faiths, reflecting the school's commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

Educational Approach

Doane Stuart is distinct in its decision to exclude Advanced Placement courses and standardized tests from its curriculum. This pedagogical choice allows teachers to focus on personalized learning experiences rather than teaching to a test, ensuring that each student's learning pace aligns with their individual needs. The school also offers unique experiential learning opportunities, such as the Ignite, Innovate, Inspire: Exploratory Expeditions Week, which transforms real-world environments into classrooms for active learning.

Community and Values

Doane Stuart has been recognized by the Anti-Defamation League for its efforts in promoting community, confronting bullying, and integrating character and sportsmanship into both academics and athletics. The school values diversity in all aspects, including race, ethnicity, religion, gender, and socio-economic background, and prides itself on making a high-quality education accessible and affordable for a diverse range of students.

Financial Support

Financial aid plays a crucial role in supporting nearly half of the student body, underscoring the institution's commitment to inclusivity and equal access to education. The school relies heavily on philanthropic support from various stakeholders, including alumni, parents, and friends, to bridge the gap between tuition revenue and the full cost of providing a Doane Stuart education.

Notable Initiatives

In recent years, Doane Stuart has highlighted its focus on enhancing technology and performing arts through initiatives like The First Focus Campaign. These efforts aim to provide essential resources for faculty and students, ensuring that the institution remains at the forefront of educational excellence and community engagement.