Yes, we are accredited by the State of New Mexico Board of Education and the Independent Schools Association of Southwest (ISAS).

ISAS is the acronym for Independent Schools Association of the Southwest. Independent Schools in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Kansas have ISAS as their accrediting agency. Every ten years, Manzano Day School undergoes the re-accreditation process, for which ISAS examines every aspect of our school, making sure we are following the high standards set forth by the ISAS and that we’ve implemented the Principles of Good Practice set down by NAIS, the National Association of Independent Schools.

We are very proud of our accreditation by ISAS, and, in fact, Manzano Day School is the only elementary school in Albuquerque with this distinction. In the fall of 2023, we completed our most recent reaccreditation visit by ISAS. Other schools in Albuquerque accredited by ISAS are Albuquerque Academy, Bosque School, and Sandia Preparatory School. These schools educate students in grades 6 – 12.

Manzano Day School is also a member in good standing of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). As a member school, we must follow the Principles of Good Practice established by NAIS. NAIS has divided up the states into various regions to create separate associations, such as ISAS for the southwest region. These different independent school associations can communicate with the schools in their region and hold all member schools accountable in following the Principles of Good Practice as set forth by NAIS.

Students in third through fifth grades are assessed through the CTP4, an assessment developed by the Educational Records Bureau to specifically address the needs of high achieving students at schools with high levels of learning standards. The CTP4 specifically assesses achievement in the areas of literacy and mathematics.

Additionally, students in third and fourth grades are assessed through the WrAP, a test developed by the Educational Records Bureau to assess writing samples of students, utilizing an analytical scoring method based upon a six-point rubric.

Manzano Day School’s extended day program is from 7:15 a.m. - 8:15 a.m. In the afternoon, the program runs from 3:45 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Several times a year there are also before or after school workshops the children can attend for a fee. If your child attends one of these workshops the extended day cost is reduced.

Yes, students can either bring a lunch from home or purchase a school lunch. Our school lunches are provided by Sandia Cafe. 

Yes. Learn more about our Summer Programs.

Manzano Day School offers point-to-point bus service from the northeast heights and the west side of Albuquerque.

Manzano Day School parents are essential to the successful achievement of our mission. We have a long-standing practice of partnering with our families in the educational process at Manzano Day School. Maintaining this practice is meaningful and important to maximize a child’s opportunity for success at Manzano Day School. Parents have unique gifts and talents to contribute when they take an active role in their children’s education. The school thrives, in large part because of our highly involved, giving, and talented parent body. Parent involvement is key to our success and there are many ways to participate, including the Manzano Day School Parents Association (MDSPA).

Approximately 49% of Manzano Day School’s student body self-identify as students of color. Nearly 20% of the student body receives financial assistance.

Our admission process starts a year in advance of when your child would be attending Manzano Day School. We accept applications starting September 1 for the following school year.

Pre-k and kindergarten applicants are invited to participate in a Saturday morning playdate with our teachers and an individual assessment with a member of our admission staff. 

Applicants for first through fifth grade are invited to a visit day when they will spend the day in class with their peers and complete admission assessments during their visit.

Yes. Manzano Day School offers financial aid based on demonstrated need and available funds. The maximum award covers 50% of tuition. Manzano Day School partners with Clarity, which assists independent schools in determining a family’s financial need. There is a financial aid application process that is separate from the admission process. Families are encouraged to discuss this opportunity with the Director of Admission and Financial Aid, Michelle Jaramillo.

Tuition is set each January by our Board of Trustees for the following school year. Please refer to our Tuition and Financial Aid page for details.

Yes, there are different payment plans offered that allow families to spread out payments over the course of the school year. 

The Wings program was established in 1988. The creation of Wings was based on our knowledge that sound early education is critical for future academic success. We also believe the investment in a single child is an investment in the community as a whole.

This unique program provides full-tuition for academically promising children with very limited economic resources. Children who show the potential for educational achievement are identified through the Admission Office after going through the same admission process as all other applicants. There also must be evidence of family support to help ensure the child’s success at Manzano Day School. Wings is a small program guided by the principles of commitment and excellence. To maximize the realization of each child’s potential, the Wings program provides full-tuition for each child from pre-k or kindergarten through fifth grade.