FAQs
We have put together a list of commonly asked questions as a resource for you. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to contact Linda Lutz Director of Admissions at llutz@saintstephens.org 941-746-2121.
- What makes Saint Stephen’s college preparatory curriculum unique?
There is no question of our academic reputation, over 40 years strong, surpassing local, state and national test scores. Our curriculum is tied to a scope and sequence; each year builds on the next so that true learning takes place. We do not emphasize standardized testing or teach to a test, but rather create an environment where students are encouraged to develop meaningful understanding of subjects. Teachers are a large part of the equation, creative in their approach to teaching to ensure effectiveness with each student. Curriculum is developed based on the best available research and not decided as a result of the talents or bias of a teacher or the merits of a single text or instructional tool. - What is the student-teacher ratio?
Our student-teacher ratio is 9:1. - Is Saint Stephen’s accredited?
Saint Stephen’s has accreditations and memberships in the following: National Association of Independent Schools, Florida Council of Independent Schools, Southern Association of Independent Schools, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, National Association of Episcopal Schools, Florida Kindergarten Council, and Florida High School Athletic Association. - Where do Saint Stephen’s graduates attend college?
Our college counseling staff provides support for students and families planning for college and university decisions. All of our graduates go on to college. A college acceptance list is located here. - Must a student be Episcopalian to attend Saint Stephen’s?
Saint Stephen’s welcomes families of all faiths. Our character education connects students’ hearts and minds to spiritual values. This enables an atmosphere of understanding, compassion and community that provides a balance to the scholarship of a strong college preparatory curriculum. Click here to learn more about faith and understanding at Saint Stephen’s. - Do you offer transportation/bus service to and from the school?
Yes, we offer transportation with our buses and van service. Any family who chooses to use the transportation can select one-way or round-trip. Each family pays only one annual fee, regardless of how many children are in the family. We provide service north, south, east and west of our location. If any one neighborhood has a high concentration of students, we will stop directly in that neighborhood, and that decision is made prior to the start of each school year. Click here to learn more about our transportation options. - Are there active, community-based carpools?
While we do not offer a structured system of carpooling, we do provide a family directory listing all the family contact information. It is a good reference guide to use when looking for other families in your neighborhood to connect with. We also have new parent ambassadors who can help give recommendations of other families who may be also looking to carpool. - Do you provide a lunch service?
Our lunch program is run by one paid staff member and several parent volunteers and is one of the most popular ways our parents give of their time. Students in the Lower School and Intermediate School divisions have the option to bring their lunch or to choose from a pre-select menu by ordering online. When in Middle School, they can either pre-order or go to the “lunch limo” where they can order from today’s menu using a cashless system that requires money to be credited to each student account. While we do not have a traditional cafeteria, on most days our students enjoy lunch outside within the beauty of our natural setting at especially provided picnic tables. Click here for more details on our lunch service. - Do Saint Stephen’s students wear uniforms?
Students are required to wear uniforms in the Lower and Intermediate Schools. Once they are in Middle and Upper School, a dress code is required. Further information about these dress codes can be found here. - What athletic programs do you offer?
Students at Saint Stephen’s have over 40 different sports teams to choose from. Over 80% in the Middle and Upper School students choose to play a sport. Sports are divided by season, fall, winter and spring. Choices are located here. - Do you offer extra-curricular activities and after-school programs?
Students here are able to enrich their academic lives with programs in the arts, foreign language, computer science, leadership and community service. Many participate in interscholastic sports. All Lower School students may attend After Care until 5:30 pm; Intermediate School students may participate in our STARS program, which provides a healthy snack, play time, and study time until 5:30pm. Middle School students may attend a study hall in the library until 5:30 pm. We also provide organized holiday and summer camp programs. A complete listing of after-school programs is available here. - Are there volunteer opportunities at Saint Stephen’s?
A very active, involved Parents’ Association supports Saint Stephen’s classrooms, field trips, athletics, and fund-raising. - What additional support does Saint Stephen’s provide a non-native English-speaking student?
Saint Stephen’s is dedicated to providing a world class education to all of our students, including those from around the world. Saint Stephen’s has developed a program for non-native English speakers or students taking classes entirely in English for the first time. The goal of this program is to support the student’s academic achievement within the standard curriculum. Click here for more information.
