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Moving to an area with a top-rated school district is one of the many considerations homebuyers have when they think of relocating. Especially if they’re raising a family or plan on having children soon.
If you’re thinking of moving to suburban Philadelphia and looking at Lower Merion, PA real estate, you’ll find that schools in the township of Lower Merion will exceed your expectations.
Why? Read on to find out.
ABOUT LOWER MERION, PA
Nestled within Montgomery County, Lower Merion Township has a distinctive charm that seamlessly melds historic grandeur with modern allure. It is part of the Philadelphia Main Line suburbs and lies just outside Philadelphia. Lower Merion Township is known for its affluent residential communities, historic neighborhoods, and proximity to cultural and recreational amenities. It occupies 24 square miles and is home to more than 61,500 residents.
Back in the day
- Europeans settled in the area in the 1600s and named it after a county in North Wales called Merioneth.
- The Merion Friends Meeting House, an architectural gem dating back to 1695, stands to this day and links to this bygone era.
- Over time, the area went from agricultural to residential, marked by the arrival of the Pennsylvania Railroad in the 19th century, which allowed affluent families to escape the urban hustle of Philadelphia.
Lower Merion today
- Lower Merion’s historic districts, including Ardmore and Gladwyne, showcase an array of Colonial-era homes and landmarks.
- Lower Merion placed number 37 in Money.com’s list of 50 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2021-2022
- Niche.com gave Lower Merion an overall grade of A+, scoring the highest in public schools, family friendliness, and health & fitness.
- The township’s development plans include enhancing walkability, adding affordable housing units, and transforming a multi-acre commercial complex into a live-work-play community.
- Lower Merion is as well known for its schools as it is for its history, culture, and affluence.
It’s clear that the township’s historical roots, architectural treasures, cultural richness, educational excellence, green landscapes, and vibrant community life define its unique identity.
To anyone wishing to move to Lower Merion, expect a welcoming haven where history harmonizes with the present, ensuring that new residents can revel in its timeless allure.
ABOUT THE LOWER MERION SCHOOL DISTRICT
As the largest school district in Philadelphia, Lower Merion serves over 8,700 students with an impressive student-to-teacher ratio of 11:1 – one of the lowest among school districts.
The Lower Merlion School District (LMSD) caters to the residents in Lower Merion and the Borough of Narberth, including Narberth, Merion Station, Gladwyne, Bala Cynwyd, and portions of Ardmore, Bryn Mawr, Haverford, Wynnewood, and Villanova.
It currently supports:
- 6 elementary schools
- 3 middle schools
- 2 high schools
It has also earned a reputation for being one of the best townships in PA due to its stellar academic programs, plethora of extracurricular activities, and focus on providing a holistic educational experience for its students.
The recognitions and achievements of the school district speak clearly. They include:
- The highest SAT and PSAT scores in the entire state of Pennsylvania
- The highest number of National Merit Semifinalists
- The highest number of International Baccalaureate diplomas
- Individual schools that are some of the best
All these manifest the school district’s mission statement: “Committed to excellence and continuous improvements, the Lower Merion School district strives to ensure that all students achieve their highest level of critical thinking and creativity, that they value themselves and the diversity of others, and that they are knowledgeable, contributing citizens capable of excelling in a rapidly changing world.”
8 REASONS THE LOWER MERION SCHOOL DISTRICT IS AMONG THE BEST
Niche has named the Lower Merion School District as the fourth-best school district in Pennsylvania, while School Digger ranked the LMSD elementary and middle schools among the top 30 in the state. Thus, residents of Lower Merion are assured that their children are receiving the best education in the state.
Here is a closer look at the 8 reasons Lower Merion schools are among the best in Pennsylvania.
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Lower Merion schools focus on academic excellence
Lower Merion consistently ranks among the top in the state, boasting impressive standardized test scores and graduation rates. Reports indicate that 74% of its students are proficient in math and 84% are proficient in reading.
Lower Merion elementary schools adopt a robust curriculum that lays the groundwork for future success. Rigorous academic standards and a focus on basic skills ensure that students learn a strong educational foundation.
As students progress through middle school and high school, they encounter a diverse array of courses designed to cater to different interests and academic strengths. Advanced Placement (AP) and honors courses provide a challenging environment for high-achieving students, while comprehensive support systems (including tutoring and academic counseling) address the diverse needs of the student body.
The district’s commitment to innovation in teaching methodologies ensures that students are not just prepared academically but are also equipped for the challenges of a rapidly evolving world. Technology integration, project-based learning, and collaborative activities foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.
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Lower Merion schools hire top talents
Lower Merion schools know that teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the educational experience. Faculty members are not just instructors but also mentors and guides who inspire and foster a love for learning that goes beyond the classroom.
The commitment to professional development ensures that the district’s teachers stay abreast of the latest educational trends and methodologies. This dedication to ongoing training empowers teachers to create dynamic and engaging learning environments, tailoring their approaches to the evolving needs of their students.
The student-teacher ratio is carefully managed to ensure personalized attention. This approach allows educators to identify individual strengths and challenges in order to provide targeted support.
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Lower Merion schools boast state-of-the-art facilities
The district’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the curriculum and teachers. State-of-the-art facilities provide students with a conducive learning environment. Classrooms are equipped with the latest technology, schools have well-maintained sports facilities, and the addition of purpose-built spaces for arts and sciences contributes to a holistic educational experience.
The district’s investment in infrastructure shows its dedication to preparing students for the demands of the future. Whether these are science laboratories, performing arts centers, or athletic complexes, these facilities are designed to inspire creativity, curiosity, and fuel a desire to strive for excellence.
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Lower Merion schools are inclusive and diverse
The district recognizes that a rich tapestry of perspectives enhances learning. The commitment to diversity is evident in both the student body and the curriculum.
A multicultural approach is integrated into the curriculum, exposing students to a wide range of perspectives and fostering an appreciation of different cultures. This emphasis on diversity prepares students to navigate a globalized world with empathy and cultural competence.
Beyond the curriculum, Lower Merion actively promotes an inclusive environment where all students feel welcome and supported. The district’s commitment to equity is reflected in initiatives that address disparities and ensure that every student, regardless of background, has equal access to educational opportunities.
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Lower Merion schools promote extracurricular activities
While academic excellence forms the core of its mission, the district recognizes the importance of nurturing well-rounded individuals. The extracurricular landscape within Lower Merion schools is vibrant, offering students a plethora of opportunities to explore their interests and passions outside of the traditional classroom setting.
From athletics to the arts, and clubs to community service, the district’s extracurricular offerings cater to a broad spectrum of interests. The district’s commitment to fostering holistic development is reflected in the variety of programs available, whether they are championship-winning sports teams, award-winning arts performances, or student-led community service initiatives.
Participation in extracurricular activities not only enhances students’ skill sets but also contributes to the development of crucial life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and time management. Whether a student aspires to be an athlete, artist, scientist, or community leader, Lower Merion schools provide opportunities to explore and excel in their chosen pursuits.
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Lower Merion schools actively engage parents
The active involvement of parents in their children’s education is a cornerstone of the district’s success.
The Lower Merion School District fosters open communication channels, ensuring that parents are well-informed about their children’s progress, upcoming events, and educational initiatives. Parent-teacher associations and advisory committees encourage parents to share insights, concerns, and ideas.
The relationship between parents and teachers fosters collaboration, making the child’s educational journey a shared endeavor. Whether it is volunteering at school events, participating in parent-teacher conferences, or contributing to fundraising initiatives, parents in the district are encouraged to actively engage in shaping the educational experience of their children.
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Lower Merion schools are supported by local communities
Local businesses, community organizations, and civic leaders recognize the pivotal role a strong school district plays in the overall well-being of the community.
They support the school district through scholarship programs and mentorship initiatives, as well as partnerships that provide students with real-world learning opportunities. The relationship between the school district and the community creates a sense of shared responsibility for the success and prosperity of the next generation.
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Lower Merion schools are committed to transparency and accountability
The commitment to transparency and accountability is a hallmark of the district’s leadership. Regular communication with stakeholders, data-driven decision-making, and a focus on adaptability ensures that the district remains at the forefront of educational advancements.
Reflective of its sound stewardship and fiscal strength is the fact that the Lower Merion School District is one of the only two districts in Pennsylvania to earn Moody’s highest AAA bond rating.
TOP SCHOOLS IN LOWER MERION
These reasons alone could convince you that Lower Merion Township is one of the best townships in PA. It helps, of course, that the schools report higher proficiency levels in math and reading than the state average.
If you’re planning to buy one of the homes for sale in Lower Merion, any of the Lower Merion schools will be a great choice for your children, especially if you want them to receive a holistic educational experience that will equip them with all the knowledge and skills they need for the future in an ever-changing world. Here are some details about a few of Lower Merion’s award-winning schools:
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Merion Elementary School
Located in Merion Station, PA, Merion Elementary School has a population of over 500 students and a student-teacher ratio of 12:1. It is also a two-time recipient of the U.S. Department of Education’s Blue Ribbon School of Excellence.
The Merion Elementary School allows students to use wireless technology inside and outside the classroom. It also offers extracurricular activities for those in grades 4 and 5.
Parents of Merion Elementary School students are all praises for the school, noting how its dedicated academic staff, along with the support of the Merion Home & School Association, creates a caring and supportive environment conducive to learning.
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Penn Valley Elementary School
Penn Valley School is located in Narberth, PA, and prides itself in offering a diverse instructional program and providing a safe and nurturing environment for learning. It’s also one of the top-rated elementary schools not only in the district, but in the entire state.
Renovations on the entire school facility, which were completed in 2004, resulted in the addition of a library and a multi-media center that elevated the learning experience. As with Merion Elementary School, Penn Valley School fosters collaboration with parents and the academic staff, especially when it comes to school-based decisions.
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Penn Wynne Elementary School
Along with Merion Elementary School, Penn Wynne Elementary School is another prestigious Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. Located in Wynnewood, PA, Penn Wynne Elementary School serves over 700 students with a student-teacher ratio of 13:1. To foster an inclusive and diverse learning environment, students are given weekly Spanish classes.
Apart from its academic programs, the school is known for its after-school sports program. Penn Wynne Elementary School also works closely with parents so that it can provide cultural and enriching experiences for its students.
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Cynwyd Elementary School
Located in Bala Cynwyd, PA, Cynwyd Elementary School has over 400 students with a student-teacher ratio of 13:1. The school holds itself up as an example of what can be achieved through an active collaboration among teachers, students, parents, and the entire community. Parents who sent their kids to Cynwyd Elementary School have described the teachers there as “amazing”.
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Lower Merion High School
This storied institution continues to be an example of academic excellence and the training ground of future leaders. Diplomats, four-star generals, government officials, university presidents, movie and TV stars, and Fortune 500 CEOs once walked the halls of Lower Merion High School.
Since its founding more than 100 years ago, Lower Merion High School has been renowned for academic excellence. The secret to its success lies in a personalized approach that allows every student to discover opportunities that fit their interests.
FIND A HOME IN THE EXCELLENT SCHOOL DISTRICT OF LOWER MERION, PA
When it comes to their kid’s education, parents want only the best. Homes for sale in Lower Merion puts buyers right at the heart of Pennsylvania’s top school district.
Invest in your child’s future. Explore available homes in areas that are part of the Lower Merion School District. Allow me, Rebecca Diamond, to show you your options.
As a Realtor, investor, and landlord for over 20 years, I have provided my clients with a personalized and honest service that will help them achieve their real estate goals.
Let’s get started today. Call 610.246.0006 or send me an email here. I look forward to hearing from you!