Shady Lane School (Top-Ranked �� School for 2026)

100 North Braddock Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15208

Tel: (412) 243-4040

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Shady Lane began in 1966 as an idea that was ahead of its time on many fronts.

From the outset, we have advocated for doing better by our children, teachers, parents and community.

We seek knowledge and challenge assumptions.Even more importantly, we continue to listen and learn.

We keep ourselves at the forefront, adopting new understanding of learning styles and multiple intelligences and new findings from early childhood brain development research.The constant has been a strong passion for and a deep commitment to children; all that they bring, and all that they can become.

In September, 1993, the school was recognized as one of 10 exemplary preschool programs in the country by Child Magazine.

Shady Lane's educational program is responsive to the individual strengths and developmental needs of each child.

The school offers children, age 2 to 6, a program designed to help them grow as individuals, and in relationship with others and the worlds of materials and ideas.

Shady Lane School is committed to fostering children's self confidence, independence, curiosity, and problems-solving skills.

Caring staff members help students search for and form their own questions, ideas, and meaningful solutions in an environment of mutual trust. Students enjoy the pleasure of learning through direct experience.

Quick Facts (2026)

Top-Ranked PA School
School Type: Early Childhood / Day Care
Grades: Nursery/Preschool-Prekindergarten
Enrollment: 130 students
Average class size: 14 students
Application Deadline: None / Rolling
Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

Shady Lane School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for:

School Overview

School Type

Early Childhood / Day Care

School Membership(s)School Assoc.

European Council for International Schools

Religious Affiliation

Nonsectarian

Grades Offered

Grades Nursery/Preschool-Prekindergarten

Learning Difference Programs

Yes

Learning Programs Supported

All children are welcome

Year Founded

1966

Summer School Offered

Yes

School Calendar

Student Body

Total Students

130 students

Student Body Type

Co-ed

% Students of Color

55%

State avg.: 27%

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers

24 teachers

Student-Teacher Ratio

5:1

National avg.:

% Faculty w/Advanced Degree

80%

Average Class Size

14 students

Classroom Dress Code

Casual

Play clothes, safe shoes

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline

None / Rolling

Tuition Notes

Varies depending on age and schedule selected (Half-Day, Full-Day, Extended-Day)

% on Financial Aid

25%

Admissions Director

Gina Capriotti

Admissions Associate

Janna Rasmussen

Source: Verified school update

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shady Lane School's ranking?

Shady Lane School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for: Highest percentage of faculty with advanced degrees.

When is the application deadline for Shady Lane School?

The application deadline for Shady Lane School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

In what neighborhood is Shady Lane School located?

Shady Lane School is located in the Point Breeze North neighborhood of Pittsburgh, PA.

School Reviews

5 8/10/2013

All three of my daughters went to Shady Lane School. The education program was superb. Children are treated like individuals with potential that can be developed and explored rather than pieces of clay that need to be developed into the "right" shape. I could not have asked for a better education/experience for my kids. An added bonus is that I have become good friends with many of the other parents I met there.

- Posted by Parent - rbert

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