How to Get Into Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew: Your Guide to Admission

Why Families Choose Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew

Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew, located in San Mateo, California, is a coeducational private school founded as part of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, which has a long-standing history in the region.

The school was established with a mission to provide a high-quality, faith-based education grounded in the Episcopal tradition of academic excellence, inclusivity, and community service. It has grown to maintain its strong values-based education model and commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity, ethical leadership, and social responsibility.

Episcopal Day also maintains long-standing traditions, including chapel services, service-learning projects, and cultural celebrations that build a strong sense of community among students, parents, and faculty.

Over the years, Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew has built a reputation for academic excellence, strong values, and a close-knit community, making it a highly regarded choice for families in the San Mateo area and beyond.

How hard is it to get into Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew?

Episcopal Day has a selective admissions process that evaluates applicants based on academic performance, teacher recommendations, personal essays, and interviews. While it may not be as competitive as some of the most elite private schools in the area, it seeks students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, a strong work ethic, and a good fit with its values and community. Prospective families are encouraged to showcase their child’s unique strengths and interests to stand out in the admissions process.

The main entry points for Episcopal Day are typically in preschool, kindergarten, and 6th grade, which are the primary entry years. Admissions for other grades are possible but depend on space availability and may be more competitive. Families interested in applying should begin the admissions process early, as spots fill quickly, especially for the key entry points.

Applicants can also submit standardized test scores if they believe it strengthens their application. A parent or guardian statement is required, offering insights into the student’s character, strengths, and educational goals from the family’s perspective. Some students may submit optional work samples, particularly if they wish to highlight academic projects or creative talents.

Given the competitiveness of the process, families may benefit from working with private school admissions consultants who understand the ins and outs of the Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew admissions process. Consultants can provide valuable guidance in presenting a compelling application and ensuring that prospective students stand out in a highly selective pool of candidates.

The Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew Admissions Process

Creating an account on Ravenna is the first step in the Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew application process. You may apply, register for admission events, receive notifications from Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew, and monitor your application progress. The steps you should take are as follows:

1. Create an Account on Ravenna Hub
2. Submit an Inquiry Form
3. Attend Admissions Events (Optional but Recommended)
4. Submit Required Documents and Complete the Application
5. Schedule and Complete an Interview
6. Submit Supplemental Materials
7. Enrollment Confirmation

Application Deadline:

• Pre-Kindergarten through 4th Grade: Applications are due by January 21, 2025.
• 5th through 8th Grade: Applications are due by January 5, 2025.

For more details and to begin your application, visit Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew Admissions.

Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew Admission Requirements. 

Parent Statement

Parents or guardians of applicants are required to answer a parent/guardian questionnaire that is found on Ravenna. You will be asked to talk about your child and share information about their personality, achievements, and other personal information. The last question asks about your family’s goals and willingness to participate in activities that promote the values and mission of the Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew.

How to write a parent statement

The parent statement is an integral part of the application process as it will help admissions officers better understand your child’s background and potential to become successful at Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew. It will also demonstrate your family’s commitment to your child’s education. When choosing what to write about, remember that you have to be honest and authentic. Focus on your child’s strengths and unique characteristics, and provide anecdotes to support your statements. For some tips on how to write a powerful parent statement from experienced educational consultants, click here. 

Teacher Recommendations/Recommendation Letters

Recommendation letters from current math and English teachers and the principal or counselor are required for applicants. The forms can be found on Ravenna and will be sent to the admissions committee online.

How to get strong recommendation letters

Teacher recommendations are crucial for admission since they give a more thorough evaluation of your child’s character, personality, and academic aptitude. Because they deal with your child on a daily basis and can confirm your child’s academic success, they can make professional and unbiased observations. Building strong relationships with teachers is crucial if you want them to be able to provide strong recommendations that support other application materials when the time comes for them to do so.

Transcript

Transcripts from both the previous academic year and the first semester of the current one must be submitted by applicants. You can download the confidentiality and release forms from Ravenna and send them to your child’s present school. 

How to improve grades 

The transcript will demonstrate your child’s readiness to handle Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew’s rigorous curriculum. But what if your child’s grades aren’t all that outstanding? Start private school admissions consulting early! Our tutors and academic coaches will work with your child to improve grades and achieve scores that meet the requirements. We provide online or in-person tutoring for a variety of courses as well as diagnostic testing. However, because we are aware that boosting GPA won’t guarantee success, we provide academic coaching that teaches executive function skills as a more holistic strategy. 

Personal Statement

There are questions on Ravenna that an applicant has to answer within a limited character count. The questions look into your child’s personality, skills, and interests, as well as their expectations of Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew. The questions might seem simple and easy to answer, but admissions officers are looking at certain characteristics and values in your child that will determine if they are a good fit at Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew. 

Crafting a compelling personal statement

Our private school admissions consultants can guide your child and give advice on how to best answer the questions truthfully. Our years of experience working with families applying to Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew have allowed us to understand what they are looking for in applicants. From your child’s personal circumstances, we can identify what traits and characteristics will interest the admissions team and be considered for admission. Here are some useful tips on how to write a compelling personal statement.

Student Writing Assessment

The Writing Sample is an online test proctored by Test Innovators, in which students are expected to write an essay in response to a prompt within 30 minutes. Due to the limited time, applicants often have difficulty composing their thoughts and are not able to produce well-written essays. 

Writing Sample tips

To help your child with this challenging admissions requirement, we offer Proctored Writing Sample (PWS) preparation. Our admissions consultants have a list of common essay prompts that your child can practice on and get trained to organize their ideas and put them into writing. 

To take your child’s writing skills to the next level, enroll in our Program in Writing and Reading (PWR), where our writing tutors will help your child develop reading comprehension skills and eventually unlock writing skills. 

Standardized Test Scores

Although optional, admissions personnel can better assess each applicant’s academic preparedness and likelihood of succeeding in Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew’s demanding environment using these exams.

How to prepare for standardized tests

We are aware that getting ready for standardized tests can be somewhat stressful, but we can be of assistance. We will help your child via a customized test preparation strategy, from recognizing their strengths to addressing areas they find challenging, based on our years of expertise working with families applying to Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew. Our objective is to alleviate the burden of test preparation and ensure your child is prepared to present their best self on test day. View our services for test prep here.

Admissions Interviews

The Episcopal Day incorporates interviews in its admissions process, particularly for middle school applicants. While formal interviews are not specified for lower school applicants, these assessments and shadow days allow the admissions team to observe and interact with prospective students in various settings.

How to prepare for admissions interviews

Your child will be assessed and evaluated based on how they carry themselves during those occasions. With nearly 20 years of experience in the industry and helping numerous families get into The Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew, we know what they are looking for. With informed interview preparation, our admissions consultants will introduce your child to common interview questions and teach them how to answer them truthfully while adhering to their values. 

Campus Tours and Open Houses

The Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew offers several opportunities for prospective families to explore the campus and learn about the school’s programs:

1. Learning-in-Action Campus Tours

These tours provide an in-depth look at the school’s facilities, classrooms, and daily activities. Prospective families can observe classes in session and experience the school’s environment firsthand. Tours are scheduled throughout the admissions season. 

2. Virtual Information Sessions

For those unable to visit in person, the school offers virtual sessions that cover various aspects of the school’s philosophy, curriculum, and community values. These sessions are designed to provide a comprehensive overview of what Episcopal Day offers. 

3. Open House Events

The school hosts open house events where families meet faculty, staff, and current students. These events offer insights into the school’s programs and community. For instance, an open house was held on November 17, 2024. For information on upcoming events, please check the school’s Instagram page.

4. Pre-K and Kindergarten Playdates

Applicants for Pre-K and Kindergarten are invited to Saturday morning playdates at the Charles House campus. These sessions allow young children to engage with teachers and peers in a classroom setting. 

How to register

To register for campus tours, open houses, or other admissions events at the Episcopal Day, please follow these steps:

1. Visit the Admissions Visit Page:
   • Go to the school’s Visit page to view available events and learn more about the opportunities to explore the campus.
2. Submit an Inquiry Form:
   • If you haven’t already, complete the Inquiry Form to express your interest. The admissions team will follow up with you to discuss next steps and provide information on upcoming events.
3. Contact the Admissions Office:
   • For personalized assistance or to schedule a visit, reach out directly to the admissions team:
     • Phone: 650-274-0775
     • Email: admissions@episcopaldaysanmateo.org

Virtual Panel Sessions

Episcopal Day offers virtual information sessions as part of their admissions process. These sessions are designed to provide prospective families with insights into the school’s programs, values, and community. They include:

• Lower School Virtual Information Sessions: Tailored for families interested in Pre-Kindergarten through 4th grade.
• Middle School Virtual Information Sessions: Designed for those considering 5th through 8th grade.
• Episcopal Values, Diversity & Leadership Sessions: Focused on the school’s core values and commitment to diversity and leadership.

To participate in these sessions, families are encouraged to:

1. Create a Profile on Ravenna: This is the platform used by the school for event registrations and applications.
2. Register for Desired Sessions: Once your profile is set up, you can sign up for the virtual sessions that interest you.

Additionally, the school offers a variety of videos on their YouTube channel that showcase aspects of student life, events, and admissions information, which can provide further insights into the community.

What is Student Life Like at Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew

Student life at Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew is vibrant, diverse, and centered around creating a strong sense of community, personal growth, and academic exploration. Students are encouraged to engage in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs, arts, athletics, and leadership opportunities. Community engagement is also a foundation of student life at Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew. The school emphasizes service learning, encouraging students to participate in projects that connect them with local communities and social causes. This focus on civic responsibility helps students develop empathy and a broader understanding of the world.

Additionally, Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew fosters a supportive environment through its advisory program. Small groups of students meet regularly with faculty advisors to discuss academic progress, personal growth, and community-building activities. The school also provides students access to experiential learning opportunities, outdoor education programs, and team-building adventures, enriching their overall student experience.

Through a combination of academic rigor, extracurricular involvement, and a strong sense of community, Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew creates an environment where students can discover their passions, build meaningful relationships, and prepare for future success.

Episcopal Day Curriculum and Core Academic Programs

The Episcopal Day offers a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum designed to foster intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and personal growth among students from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade.

Pre-Kindergarten

The Pre-K program provides a rich, play-based curriculum that engages children through age-appropriate activities promoting social, emotional, physical, intellectual, and spiritual development. Lessons are thematic and hands-on, catering to individual learning levels and focusing on educating the whole child. 

Grades 1-4

In these formative years, the curriculum emphasizes student purpose, responsibility, and spirit. Students are encouraged to ask questions, engage in discussions, and discover answers independently. The program integrates problem-solving, critical thinking, and creative expression across core subjects. Morning Meetings foster a caring and supportive classroom community. 

Grades 5-8

The middle school curriculum is designed to develop students’ voices as scholars and leaders through a rigorous academic program and robust student life experiences. Students engage in interdisciplinary studies, including advanced coursework in mathematics, science, humanities, and world languages. The program also emphasizes leadership development and community engagement. 

This holistic approach ensures that students at Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew receive a well-rounded education that prepares them to be compassionate, knowledgeable, and proactive members of society.

What Sports does Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew Offer?

At the Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew, athletics play a significant role in student life, promoting physical health, teamwork, and leadership. The school’s inclusive philosophy ensures that all eligible students are encouraged to participate in after-school sports without the pressure of tryouts, emphasizing sportsmanship and personal growth. 

Additionally, the school hosts one-day events for sports like golf and swimming, providing students with diverse athletic experiences. 

More than 90% of Episcopal Day students engage in at least one sport, reflecting the school’s commitment to broad participation. Students in grades four through eight are eligible to join, with basketball starting in fourth grade and other sports beginning in fifth grade. 

The school is also a member of the West Bay Athletic League, established in 2002, which includes independent schools such as Castilleja, Crystal Springs Middle School, Girls Middle School, Harker, Highlands Christian, Keys School, Menlo, Nueva, Pinewood, Redeemer Lutheran, Sacred Heart, The King’s Academy, Woodside Priory, and Woodland.

Through its athletics program, Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew fosters an environment where students can embrace challenges, develop leadership skills, and pursue their personal best in a supportive and growth-oriented setting.

Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew Arts and Music Programs

The Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew offers comprehensive Arts and Music Programs designed to foster creativity, self-expression, and cultural appreciation among students from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade.

Visual Arts

• Grades 1-4: Students explore various mediums, including painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking, and fiber arts. The curriculum emphasizes learning about diverse artists and cultures, encouraging personal expression and technical skill development.
• Grades 5-8: The program incorporates art production, criticism, and history. Cross-curricular projects allow students to connect their artistic endeavors with other subjects, using a variety of two- and three-dimensional media such as clay, metals, and traditional art materials.

Music

• Grades 1-4: The music curriculum introduces students to global musical styles, languages, and cultures. Music theory is taught through engaging activities, and students play instruments like rhythm sticks, maracas, bells, and keyboards. Additionally, the Junior Choir, comprising third and fourth graders, rehearses weekly and leads lower school chapel services.
• Grades 5-8: Building on earlier experiences, middle school students delve deeper into various musical traditions, from classical to contemporary. The curriculum includes performance, composition, and music appreciation, utilizing diverse instruments and technology. The program culminates in student-led projects and presentations. 

Drama

• Grades 3-4: Drama classes provide a creative outlet for self-expression and role-playing. Students become comfortable onstage through improvisation, scene performances, and collaborative games, fostering confidence and teamwork.
• Grades 5-8: Middle school students engage in drama classes focusing on improvisation, voice, body movement, and script analysis. The program includes both curricular instruction and optional extracurricular performances, ensuring that every student finds a role that suits their interests, whether on stage or behind the scenes.

These programs aim to nurture students’ artistic talents, enhance their appreciation for the arts, and build confidence through creative expression.

Clubs and organizations at Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew

At the Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew, students have access to a variety of clubs and organizations that enhance their educational experience beyond the traditional classroom setting. These programs are designed to foster personal growth, leadership, and community engagement.

Enrichment & Afterschool Programs

The school offers the Mustang Afterschool Program (MAP), which provides after-school activities for students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Within MAP, students can participate in the Learning Enrichment Afterschool Program (LEAP), which includes classes such as basketball, robotics, coding, cooking, dance, and chess. These programs are designed to meet student’s interests and provide opportunities for skill development in various areas.

Student Leadership

Episcopal Day emphasizes the development of leadership skills through various initiatives. Students are encouraged to take on roles that build self-esteem and self-respect, with opportunities for public speaking and self-advocacy. Programs like Reading Buddies and Chapel Buddies allow older students to mentor younger peers, fostering a sense of responsibility and community.

Service Learning

The school integrates service learning into its curriculum, encouraging students to engage in hands-on projects that benefit the community. These initiatives help students develop empathy and understand the importance of contributing to society.

While specific clubs and organizations may vary each year based on student interest and faculty availability, Episcopal Day is committed to providing a diverse range of extracurricular activities that support the holistic development of its students.

Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew Famous Alumni

The Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1865. Over the years, several notable individuals have been associated with the institution:

• Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole: Fifth in line to the Hawaiian throne, he attended the school in the late 19th century.
• Prince David Kawānanakoa: Third in line to the Hawaiian throne and brother to Prince Jonah, he was also a student during the same period.
• Prince Edward Keliʻiahonui: Fourth in line to the Hawaiian throne and sibling to the aforementioned princes, he completed his education at the school.
• Lincoln Steffens: A celebrated writer and journalist known for his investigative reporting during the early 20th century, Steffens was among the school’s alumni.

These individuals are part of the school’s early history, particularly during its time as a military boarding institution known as Saint Matthew’s Hall. It’s important to note that the school has evolved significantly since then, and the current Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew focuses on providing a nurturing educational environment for students from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade.

Related Articles 

Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew’s Admissions Timeline: Key Dates and Deadlines

Creating and Leading Student-Initiated Clubs at Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew

Top 10 Sports Programs at Episcopal Day School of St. Matthew: A Complete Overview