FAQ

MKA is an innovative college-preparatory, coeducational, independent day school serving approximately 1,050 students in Pre-K–grade 12 on three campuses in Montclair, New Jersey. Our mission is to ensure that our students are well prepared not only for the academic demands of college but also to be positive, contributing citizens. With excellence in teaching, creativity in curriculum, and a highly personal, technology-enriched curriculum, MKA provides the opportunity for every student to develop to his or her maximum potential and meet the real-world challenges ahead.

MKA reflects the diversity, vibrancy, and strong community spirit of its town. In addition to its three age-appropriate campuses (see below), MKA is distinguished by a curriculum unified by Signature Programs in writing, the MKA core and ethics; by a faculty committed to ongoing professional development and excellence; and by the integration of technology into the curriculum. (All students in grades 4–12 are provided with MacBooks complete with an extensive suite of software). Students of color make up 40% of our enrollment, and we draw from almost 85 towns.

MKA is the product of a merger of three schools, Montclair Academy, The Kimberley School, and Brookside. Our Primary School (Brookside) is the former Brookside elementary school; the Middle School is the former Kimberley School; and the Upper School is the former Montclair Academy. Having three distinct divisions allows the faculty at each campus to create the appropriate environment and curriculum to meet the needs of the age group they serve. It also means that each campus has its own extensive, age-appropriate facilities, such as libraries, science labs, art rooms, gyms, and auditoriums.

Monday - Friday

• Primary School: 8:00 a.m. - 2:20 p.m.
• Middle School: 7:50 a.m. - 2:50 p.m. Interscholastic sports to follow
• Upper School: 8:00 a.m. - 2:55 p.m. Varsity and JV sports to follow
• Our Extended Play and Enrichment Program is available until 6:00 p.m. daily for grades PK - 8.

MKA provides a wireless network community for Pre-K–grade 12, and all students enjoy a 1:1 learning environment, with personal MacBooks in grades 4–12. MKA is a leader in effectively integrating technology into the curriculum and was recognized as an Apple Distinguished School where students of all ages utilize technology to maximize research and collaborative learning.

Beginning a relationship with students and parents during the freshman year, MKA's College Counseling Office has four full-time college counselors as well as two additional full-time faculty members dedicated to assisting students interested in athletics and the arts. The remarkable student-counselor ratio ensures that individuals' needs are met, and MKA consistently places students in the most selective colleges in the country. View our School Profile for more information. 

Yes. Although students may arrive as early as 7:30am, there is no charge for early arrival. After-school care is provided through our Extended Play and Enrichment (EPE) Program and is offered until 6:00 pm Monday-Friday.

Yes. Although slightly different at each campus, the dress code can best be described as "smart casual" with collared shirts as a requirement. Students enjoy Spirit Fridays and regular "dress down" days on which they can wear more casual attire. There is no dress code for students in Pre-K.

The MKA community welcomes students from a variety of backgrounds, including different family types and cultures. The Admissions Committee values academic fit and fine character and looks carefully for evidence of these in each applicant.

There are two ways to apply: either online by completing our general inquiry form and beginning the application process, or the Standard Application Online. Please note that MKA accepts the SAO for grades 4-11.

Important dates and more information about the MKA admissions process can be viewed here.

MKA’s Pre-Kindergarten program is for 4 year-olds and young 5 year-olds. Boys should be four years old by June 1, and girls should be four years old by August 1 of their entrance year at MKA.

For our Kindergarten program, boys should be five years old by June 1, and girls should be five years old by August 1 of their entrance year at MKA. Each child is evaluated on his or her readiness for our program. Emerging academic skills and social and emotional fit are important criteria.

When a child’s birthday falls near a cutoff date, the Admissions Committee will evaluate and determine the correct placement for that student. These decisions are based on what is in the best interest of the child and what placement will provide the most successful start at MKA.

MKA’s teachers and admissions officers have years of experience working with young children. We create a welcoming environment for every applicant and are able to work effectively with virtually all our applicants. However, we recognize that young children can be uncomfortable visiting a new place. On those rare occasions when a child is unable to complete their visit appointment, we may ask the child to return for a visit on another day

MKA provides centralized bus service and shuttles. Currently, the school offers shuttle service to and from school in the following towns: Maplewood, South Orange, Livingston, Millburn, and Short Hills. MKA has plans to expand to other towns based on interest and ridership. Please contact the Admissions Office with any questions.

MKA uses Clarity Schools for their Financial Aid application. Applications for Financial Aid are need-based and are submitted by mid-February each year. We will notify you of both the admissions and financial aid decisions at the same time. Please remember that MKA offers financial assistance starting in grade 4.

At the Primary School:
Pre-K applicants participate in a small group visit in one of our classrooms on a Saturday morning in January.

Prospective Kindergarten – 3rd Grade applicants visit the Primary School on a
weekday morning. At their visit, they will have the opportunity to work with an MKA Teacher and tour the school. 

At the Middle School: 
Each visit occurs on a weekday during school hours. It begins with a campus tour, followed by student and parent interviews. Students will also complete an in-person writing sample during their visit. 

If you have more than one child applying to MKA, please contact the Admissions Office so we can coordinate a Family Visit for all applicants on the same day. 

At the Upper School:
Each visit occurs on a weekday during school hours. It begins with a campus tour, followed by student and parent interviews with an admissions officer. Students will also complete an in-person writing sample during their visit. 

If you have more than one child applying to MKA, please contact the Admissions Office so we can coordinate a Family Visit for all applicants on the same day. 

Applicants must log in from the Admissions webpage or by clicking the button for Returning Visitors below. 

MKA requires that students complete an approved Algebra 1 summer course.  Such a course typically lasts six weeks (late June–early August). Please contact the Admissions Office for more details

MKA’s online application has a section where applicants can provide important information about an applicant’s passions, special interests, and/or aptitudes.The application includes an Optional Upload section where families can upload a video, photo, or document to tell us more about the applicant.

Please note: this is optional and files cannot exceed 100MB. If you have any questions or issues uploading, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@mka.org.