Forman School is an independent, coeducational college preparatory school for boarding and day students with identified learning differences. Forman develops the whole student, based on his or her unique learning profile, so that every graduate becomes an educated, confident, self-advocate throughout life.
Forman has a vital purpose: to deliver an unparalleled education for students with learning differences and to empower them to succeed in college and throughout their lives. Forman is for students in grades 9 through 12 (plus Postgraduate) who are bright and academically motivated. They have been diagnosed with dyslexia, other language-based learning differences, executive function difficulties, or attention deficits that have created challenges for them in the past. Forman embraces different learning styles, addresses the challenges head-on, and tailors learning to fit the unique needs of each student. The results are students who are happy, engaged, and successful.
When Forman was founded in 1930 by John and Julie Forman, the School quickly became a trailblazer in the education of students with learning differences. As a graduate of Princeton University, one of John Forman’s contacts was Professor Albert Einstein, who also faced reading challenges of his own as a student. This relationship led to Dr. Einstein joining Forman School’s Academic Board of Advisors and his input to the School’s groundbreaking curriculum. In addition to Einstein, the Formans received guidance in teaching the fundamentals of reading from Dr. Samuel T. Orton, a pioneer in reading methodologies.
The Formans were committed to utilizing the best available resources and latest research-driven techniques to address the specific learning differences of their students, a tradition that has continued throughout the School’s history. Forman remains a leader today, and is involved in pioneering work to broaden understanding of learning and cognition, and to transform the lives of those who learn differently.
Students at Forman learn from faculty who have extensive professional training in teaching students with learning differences, and learning at Forman is as individualized as a student’s fingerprint. A designated specialist helps each student build a personal learning toolkit with essentials for success and teachers adapt research-proven learning strategies to individual student needs. Classes are small, delivering the kind of personal attention that is necessary for progress. Evening tutors provide academic support in content areas. Outside of the classroom, the campus life program offers a wide array of activities so students can explore personal passions—or discover new ones.
Forman has never been stronger, according to the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) Commission on Independent Schools. In the School’s 10-year accreditation report, The Commission said, “Forman School is at a very exciting point in its history—most likely the strongest in terms of program, leadership, physical campus, finance, and morale.” Furthermore, the Committee added, “Forman School’s leadership is visionary, the faculty and staff are dedicated to excellence, and the students feel supported in a nurturing, positive environment.”
With a 100% college placement rate, Forman has recently matriculated graduates to Trinity College, Bryant University, University of St. Andrews, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Fairfield University, Fordham University, Roger Williams University, Syracuse University, Pratt Institute, Quinnipiac University, and more.
Forman Fast Facts
- Founded: 1930
- Campus Size: 125 acres
- Enrollment: 218
- Boarding: 191
- Day: 27
- Boys: 133
- Girls: 85
- States: 23
- Countries: 15
- Students on Financial Aid: 21%
- Number of Faculty: 62
- Student Faculty Ratio: 3.5 to 1
- Average Class Size: 8
- Number of Courses: 98
- Sports: 23
- Number of Dorms: 14
- Dorm Size: 7 to 20
- Number of Buildings 26
Clubs and Athletic Offerings: Alpine Skiing, Baseball, Basketball, Boat Building, Crew, Cross Country, Dance, Equestrian, Football, Golf, Hockey, Lacrosse, Recreational Skiing/Snowboarding, Rock Climbing, Soccer, Tennis, Theater, Ultimate Frisbee, Volleyball, White Water Kayaking, Wrestling
To learn more about Forman, please visit: www.formanschool.org