Developing Individuals of Strong Character Since 1887

Nationally Recognized.
Locally Loved.

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The Philosophy of Teaching and Learning is our Mission in practice. At Winchester Thurston School, we offer an equitable and inclusive learning experience that is grounded in our credo to “Think also of the comfort and the rights of others.”

Our Mission In Place

Winchester Thurston School
555 Morewood Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15213

Winchester Thurston School (WT) is a coeducational independent day school serving students in Junior Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12. WT is located in the Shadyside neighborhood of Pittsburgh, PA.

National Recognition

  • WT’s unique City as Our Campus initiative was recognized by the Edward E. Ford Foundation with a coveted Educational Leadership Grant.
  • This accolade came on the heels of WT’s designation as a Malone Scholars School by the Malone Family Foundation. 
  • WT is one of only five schools among the approximately 1,400 members of the National Association of Independent Schools to earn both of these distinctions.

WT JUNIOR PRE-K

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65%

of WT faculty

has advanced degrees

69

ZIP 
codes

Students come from

39

School districts

40%

More than

of students are students of color

Winchester Thurston School is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools and is accredited by the Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools.

Early Childhood & Lower School

Our Pittsburgh private elementary school faculty uses technology intentionally to enhance core learning that focuses on identifying and solving problems, understanding systems, and fostering creativity. And they use purposeful play to help children blossom as collaborative, empathetic, independent thinkers, and engaged citizens.

A joyful, active learning environment for students age 3 and a half through Grade 5

Middle School years are a time of unprecedented development when a constellation of interests and talents converges.

At our private middle school in Pittsburgh, we embrace this transitional time in preparation for Upper School by focusing on four main needs: Autonomy, Competence, Relationship, and Fun.

A personalized learning environment ensuring a holistic educational experience

Middle 
School

WT's Upper School educates future citizens of the world who are able to make decisions and provide leadership from a strong intellectual and ethical basis. We instill in all students a lifelong love of learning, particularly in a world of rapid change.

Embracing challenges with determination, confidence, and discipline

Upper 
School

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the student-to-teacher ratio, and how many students are in each class?
6:1. The class is capped at 12 students, and there are two homeroom teachers.

How often do students go outside for recess or playtime?
Students go outside twice a day for recess/playtime.

Where do students eat lunch, and what are the options for meals?
Lunch is served in the classroom- students are welcome to bring their own food, or parents can order ahead of time from our dining hall.

Is there a rest period during the day, and how long does it last?
There is a daily rest time. (approx. 45 minutes)

Is this a full-day program?
This is a full-day program, and the school day is 8:15 a.m.- 3:05 p.m.

What is the earliest time students can arrive, and is there an extended day option?
Students may arrive as early as 7:30 a.m., and extended day is available until 6:00 p.m.

Program Summary

The Jr Pre-K program provides a thematic curriculum that incorporates multiple disciplines and learning styles simultaneously to provide a well-rounded readiness and learning opportunity for our youngest learners.

Daily activities/lessons include:

  • Social/emotional
        •  learning life skills like sharing, listening, 
           cooperating, and following instructions
  • Letter recognition 
  • Number recognition
  • Specials that rotate through the week include: 
        •  music, dance, library, science, computer science, 
           art, physical education.
  • Social/emotional
        •  learning life skills like 
           sharing, listening,  
           cooperating, and 
           following instructions
  • Letter recognition 
  • Number recognition
  • Specials that rotate through the week include: 
        •  music, dance, library, 
           science, computer 
           science, art, physical 
           education.

Winchester Thurston School (WT) is a coeducational independent day school serving students in Junior Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12. WT is located in the Shadyside neighborhood of Pittsburgh, PA.

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