Private Catholic School in West Palm Beach, FL
Welcome to Rosarian Academy
Rosarian Academy, founded in 1925 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters in West Palm Beach, Florida, is a premier private school that seamlessly integrates spiritual life, academic excellence, fine arts, student organizations, and athletics. With a century of history and sponsored by the Dominican Veritas Ministries, the Academy is deeply rooted in Dominican values, fostering a strong spiritual life through daily prayer, regular Masses, and an emphasis on moral development and community service. As a leading Catholic school, these spiritual practices are designed to help students develop a solid ethical foundation and a compassionate outlook on life.
Academically, Rosarian Academy is known for its rigorous curriculum that challenges students to reach their highest potential. From early childhood through middle school, the academy offers a well-rounded education that emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and a passion for learning. Small class sizes and personalized attention enable students to thrive in core subjects while also exploring their interests in STEM, humanities, and more.
The fine arts program is a key component of the school’s holistic educational approach. Students are encouraged to express themselves through visual arts, music, and theater, with opportunities to participate in annual performances and exhibitions that highlight their talents and creativity.
Beyond academics and arts, student organizations and athletics play a crucial role in fostering leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. Rosarian Academy offers a variety of clubs, including student government and service organizations, alongside an athletics program that promotes physical fitness and sportsmanship through sports like basketball, lacrosse, soccer, and swimming. These programs equip students with the skills necessary for success in all areas of life.
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1925
Determined to bring Catholic education to the southern part of his vast Florida diocese, Bishop Barry founded St. Ann On-The-Lake Academy, where four dedicated Sisters began teaching in the humble surroundings of Saint Ann's Church and its rectory in West Palm Beach. With no street in front of the Academy, the property extended all the way to the lakefront, allowing the Sisters to enjoy a pier that stretched into the lake. -
1928
Hurricanes wreaked terrible damage in Florida demolishing the Academy buildings and grounds, windows blown out, staircases blocked, and towers atop the buildings blown off. -
1939
featureThe school's name was changed to Rosarian, honoring Ann Bradley, the mother of our generous benefactor who funded the rebuild of Bradley Hall, which had originally housed out-of-area girls. -
1953
magnis disEducators from around the world came to the Academy, drawn by a project partially funded by the State Department's Office of Education, eager to observe and learn from our innovative teaching methods. In 1954, the State Road Department acquired additional land to widen Flagler Drive, establishing the current boundaries at the front of the property. -
1959
A new swimming pool and bathhouse were added, marking a milestone where students began enjoying swimming classes as part of their daily school experience. -
1960
Embracing a vision of forward-thinking education, Rosarian introduced language labs and a guidance department. It also celebrated the opening of the Margaret Tighe Machlin Fine Arts Center, which would later bring beloved classics like Brigadoon and The Sound of Music, Oliver, and Annie, with the original dog, Sandy, making a special appearance in the school's production. -
1974
The Montessori program, affectionately known as the "Little School," was established for Rosarian’s youngest learners, ages two and a half to five, laying the foundation for future generations. -
1975 – Golden Anniversary
The Golden Anniversary Gala at The Breakers Hotel marked 50 years of growth and success, with esteemed guests like Rose Kennedy and Perry Como joining in the celebration. -
1985
Rosarian Academy transitioned to a coeducational Kindergarten through 8th-grade program, reflecting our evolving commitment to inclusive and comprehensive education. -
1991
The Academy furthered our dedication to coeducational excellence by phasing out the high school program, focusing on a robust Kindergarten through 8th-grade experience. -
1992
The graduation of our first co-ed 8th-grade class signaled a transformative era, leading to the expansion and construction of the Mary Alice Fortin Building, a testament to our growth. -
1998
The middle school moved to the newly completed Fortin Building, accompanied by the addition of a soccer field, tennis courts, track and field, and basketball courts, enhancing our campus and athletic opportunities. -
2000
In celebration of our 75th anniversary, a capital campaign was launched, resulting in the development of campus facilities, including our first-ever full-size gymnasium. -
2009
Sr. Corinne Sanders led the RA Community in the Dedication and Grand Opening of the new Picotte Center for Athletics and Fine Arts, featuring a state-of-the-art gym, music suites, drama suite, art suites, and versatile event spaces. -
2019
The opening of the Freitas STEM Innovation Center marked a significant leap in hands-on learning, with Rosarian becoming Florida’s first Carnegie STEM Excellence Pathway partner. -
2020
We revitalized the Kindergarten and Lower School play areas and expanded the Jake Rubin Field, adding the astroturf Smith Moore Practice Field and new outdoor pickleball and basketball courts, enhancing our campus facilities. -
2023
As Rosarian approaches our 100th anniversary, we have embarked on an ambitious Centennial Capital Campaign to honor our rich history and support future growth - new classrooms, playgrounds, drop-off area, security systems, and a full-sized athletic field. -
2024
Rosarian acquired all the properties between 7th and 8th streets east of Olive Avenue, and officially launched the public phase of its Centennial Capital Campaign with a May Crowning, ribbon cutting, and blessing of the new Stockard Learning Center.
ROSARIAN ACADEMY FAMILY
What Rosarian Academy Offers
Athletics
Fine Arts
Student Clubs & Organizations
Spiritual Life
Why Choose Rosarian Academy?
Catholic Faith Foundation, Welcoming All Faiths
The Only Independent Catholic School in Palm Beach County
99 Years of Rich History
7:1 Student Faculty Ratio
13 Interscholastic Sports Teams
3 Levels of Robotics Teams
21st Century Technology Integrated in All Classes
Cutting-Edge Fine Arts, Media Center, and Athletic Facilities
Accredited By Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS)
High School Credit
Wide Range of Student Organizations
478 Students
96 Faculty and Staff
Nearly 100% of Graduates Attend Their High School of Choice
Rosarian Academy Mission
Rosarian Academy, founded in 1925 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters, is an independent, coeducational Catholic school based on the Dominican pillars of prayer, community, study, and service. We educate the whole person in light of the Gospel values and provide a foundation for life.
A Welcome to Rosarian Academy from the Head of School, Virginia Devine.
It is my pleasure to welcome you to Rosarian Academy. For 100 years, Rosarian has been the only independent Catholic private school in Palm Beach County, offering students an unparalleled standard of excellence.
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make; so, I invite you to begin your exploration of our Christian school through this website. Whether you have a child under five years old or a child in the lower- or middle-grade years, journey through Rosarian’s wide range of offerings, including academics, extracurricular activities, fine arts, student organizations, community service, intramural sports, and interscholastic athletics.
Coming to Rosarian Academy is equivalent to joining a second family, one where you are encouraged to get involved and share your heart. Upon walking on our campus, you will quickly feel how our mission transcends all that we do. The spirit of our student body is captured by developing individuals with a sound moral compass, a strong foundation in prayer and service, and a desire to make the world a better place. Additionally, our teachers work diligently to model vigorous learning, working with their students to develop a love for knowledge and an understanding of the world that is unparalleled to other school settings. We are a community of students, faculty, staff and parents who are joined in pursuit of excellence in academics, the arts, athletics, and spiritual development.
There is no better way to experience Rosarian Academy’s harmonious, intellectually challenging community than by visiting. Please feel free to call 561.345.3106 or click here to schedule a tour. See Admissions for upcoming Open House dates and times.
We are excited to partner with you as you begin your journey at Rosarian Academy, building the foundation for your child’s life.
Virginia Devine
Head of School
At A Glance
- Coeducational independent school (Early Childhood, K – 8th grade)
- Founded in 1925 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters
- Sponsored by the Dominican Veritas Ministries
- Catholic-faith foundation, welcoming all faiths
- Head of School: Virginia Devine
- Beautiful and convenient waterfront location in Palm Beach County
Rosarian Academy Latest Blog Posts
Rosarian Academy
Top Activities That Build Confidence In Young Learners
Rosarian Academy
Ribbon Cutting and Field Day Celebration Mark Milestone Moment in Campus Transformation
Rosarian Academy
DVM Highlights Mission, Milestones, and Faith in November Newsletter
Rosarian Academy
RA in the News! Rosarian Academy Students Celebrate Arbor Day with Tree Planting and Storytime
Rosarian Academy
Rosarian Academy’s “Party of the Century” Celebrates 100 Years with Record-Breaking Attendance and $1.6 Million Raised
Rosarian Academy
What To Expect In A Balanced Montessori Classroom
Rosarian Academy Instagram
Proudly Serving Families Throughout Palm Beach County and Beyond
Rosarian Academy is proud to welcome students from a wide range of vibrant communities throughout Palm Beach County and beyond. While our campus is nestled in the heart of West Palm Beach, Florida, families travel from surrounding areas such as Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, Wellington, Delray Beach, Royal Palm Beach, North Palm Beach, Lake Worth, Lantana, Riviera Beach, Tequesta, and Boynton Beach to be part of our close-knit, faith-based educational community. This diverse regional reach enriches our student experience and reflects the strong reputation Rosarian Academy holds across South Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Rosarian Academy located?
Rosarian Academy is located at 807 N Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach, FL 33401, USA. The campus sits along the Intracoastal Waterway in downtown West Palm Beach, offering a convenient and scenic location for students and families
Who is the Head of School at Rosarian Academy?
As we continue our search for a Head of School, Virginia Devine, who has been a valued member of the Rosarian community for over 25 years, is serving as our Interim Head of School. Read more about the search here: rosarian.org/head-of-school-search.
What grade levels does Rosarian Academy serve?
Rosarian Academy welcomes students from 18 months of age through 8th grade, including toddler/early childhood, lower school (K–4), and middle school (grades 5–8).
Does Rosarian Academy have specific age requirements for admission into early grades?
Yes, Rosarian Academy has age guidelines for early childhood programs. Children must be at least 18 months old to enter the Toddler Program. For Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten, students must meet specific age milestones by September 1 of the academic year. These requirements help ensure that students are developmentally ready for each stage of learning.
