Admissions
Just when you thought the world might be running out of magic, you find
Nantucket Lighthouse School.Come discover an education as extraordinary as your child.
We want that feeling to be one of belonging. Of being known. Of having people who will challenge you, listen to you, and be there when you need a hand or a hug.
The best way to understand Nantucket Lighthouse School is to experience it.
There are some things you can only understand walking through the doors of Nantucket Lighthouse School.
You may notice the joy. You may spot the kindness. You may experience the genuine respect between children and the adults who know them so well.
A group of children laughing together. A teacher sitting beside a child who needs a little extra time. A question that takes a class somewhere no one expected to go.
And you may find yourself thinking, I wish I had gone to a school like this.
We warmly invite you to walk through our classrooms, meet the teachers, watch the children at work and play, and bring your questions and curiosity.
The first thing a child learns at school is how it feels to be there.
Have questions about Admissions?
Meet Julia Maury
Dean of Students & Director of AdmissionsFrom your first questions to your child's first visit, Julia is here to help your family navigate the admissions process and get to know Nantucket Lighthouse School.
Whether you are ready to schedule a visit or simply beginning to explore what Lighthouse might look like for your child, Julia is always happy to answer questions, talk through the process, and help you find the right next step.
Get in Touch:
Explore Lighthouse
Take a look around our Rugged Road and Fairgrounds Road campuses and discover the spaces where Lighthouse learning happens.
A chance to get to know one another.
Choosing a school for your child is a deeply personal decision, and we are honored that you are considering us. Our admissions process gives families time to discover Nantucket Lighthouse School and gives us time to get to know your child.
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Start with a conversation and a personal tour with Julia. She will answer your questions, introduce you to the admissions process, and help you find the right next step for your family.
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When you are ready, complete our online application. There is no application fee.
Your application gives us an opportunity to begin learning about your child and your family. We take the time to read each application thoughtfully and to understand the unique child behind it.
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Children entering Kinderclass through Grade 8 are invited to spend time at school for an observation day. They will meet teachers, play with classmates, and experience the rhythm of a school day.
Our youngest children begin their journey a little differently. Small School is our preschool program for children who are 2 years and 9 months old by September 1. Families who have completed the online application are invited to our School-Readiness Playdate on Saturday, November 21, 2026. It is a gentle opportunity for children to play, explore, and become comfortable in a new setting while we begin to get to know them.
If that date does not work for your family, Julia is happy to arrange another opportunity for your child to visit briefly during a school day.
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Once the application process is complete, we consider each child and family thoughtfully. We are looking for a genuine fit, a place where your child and family will feel known, supported, and at home.
For families who already know that Nantucket Lighthouse School feels like the right place for their child, Early Admissions = offers an opportunity to complete the application process in the fall and receive a decision in December.
In Their Words
Early Admissions
Know that Nantucket Lighthouse School is the right fit for your child?
Complete the admissions process by November 30, 2026 and receive your admissions decision on December 16, 2026.
2027–2028 Admissions Timeline
Early Admissions
Application Deadline:
November 30, 2026
Admissions Decisions:
December 16, 2026
Regular Admissions
Application Deadline:
February 1, 2027
Admissions Decisions:
February 12, 2027
Applications completed after February 1 will be considered on a rolling basis, as space allows.
Frequently asked questions
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Absolutely. You do not need to have made a decision, or even be sure that Nantucket Lighthouse School is the right fit, to come visit. Many families begin simply by arranging a tour.
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Nantucket Lighthouse School serves children from Small School through Grade 8.
Small School is our preschool program for children who are 2 years and 9 months old by September 1.
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Children entering Kinderclass through Grade 8 are invited to spend time at school for an observation day. They will meet teachers, play with classmates, and experience the rhythm of a school day.
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The School-Readiness Playdate is a small-group opportunity for children who have completed the online application to spend time at Nantucket Lighthouse School playing and exploring with other prospective Small School children.
The 2026–2027 playdate will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2026. If your family cannot attend that date, Julia will happily arrange another brief visit during a school day.
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Early Admissions is an opportunity for families who already know that Nantucket Lighthouse School is the right fit for their child to complete the admissions process in the fall and receive a decision in December.
Families who complete the Early Admissions process by November 30 receive their admissions decision on December 16, giving them the opportunity to know sooner whether a spot has been offered for the following year.
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No. There is no fee to apply.
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Applications completed after February 1 will be considered on a rolling basis, as space allows. We encourage families to reach out to Julia to discuss availability and next steps.
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Once we receive your application, Julia will be in touch with information about your child's visit and the next steps in the admissions process.
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Simply email Julia Maury at jmaury@nantucketlighthouseschool.org. You do not need to complete an application first. Julia is happy to answer questions, talk through the admissions process, or find a time for your family to visit.
Tuition & Financial Assistance
Choosing a school is an important decision for your family. We are committed to making a Lighthouse education accessible to families who share our belief in what childhood and education can be.
Learn more about tuition, payment options, and need-based financial assistance available to Lighthouse families.
Non-Discrimination Statement:
The Nantucket Lighthouse School admits qualified students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, religion, mental or physical ability, gender identity or expression, or sexual orientation to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to its students. The School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, religion, mental or physical ability, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by applicable law, in the administration of its educational, admissions, scholarships and loans, athletic, and other policies and programs.
General Admissions Policy:
The School strives to build a diverse student body that reflects the School’s mission and values. The School further strives to ensure an appropriate match between a prospective student/family and the mission and philosophy of the School. In doing so, the School maintains an admissions process that affirms the dignity and worth of each individual and respects the needs of students and families to learn about the School’s programs and activities. We encourage families to learn more about our School, and to take advantage of our Open Houses, Observation Days, tours, and knowledgeable Admissions staff.
Come see what school could be.