Rosarian Academy
Palm Beach GardensChristian Private School for Palm Beach Gardens, FL Families
Families in Palm Beach Gardens seeking a strong academic foundation grounded in Christian values choose Rosarian Academy. Founded in 1925 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters, we serve students from 18 months through 8th grade, offering an exceptional educational experience built on the Dominican pillars of prayer, community, study, and service.
Our campus in nearby West Palm Beach offers Palm Beach Gardens families a scenic, accessible location just minutes away via I-95 or US-1, close enough for a smooth commute, far enough to feel like a second home.
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.
100 Years of Rich History
- 1925
- 1928
- 1939
- 1953
- 1959
- 1960
- 1974
- 1975
- 1985
- 1991
- 1992
- 1998
- 2000
- 2009
- 2019
- 2020
- 2023
- 2024
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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
Intramural and Interscholastic Athletic Opportunities
Fine Arts
Annual Art Show, Show Choir, Christmas Programs, Fall Play, Spring Musical Productions
Student Clubs & Organizations
Art Club, Math Club, Drama Club, STEM/Robotics, National Junior Honor Society, Student Council, Student Ambassador Program
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
Courses Offered in Algebra I Honors, Algebra II Honors, Geometry Honors, and Spanish I
Wide Range of Student Organizations
478 Students
96 Faculty and Staff
Nearly 100% of Graduates Attend Their High School of Choice
Why Families From Palm Beach Gardens Choose Rosarian
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7:1 student–teacher ratio ensures personalized learning
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Independent Catholic school open to students of all faith backgrounds
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Exceptional programs in robotics, music, visual arts, and athletics
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Nearly 100% high school placement rate at students’ schools of choice
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Caring faculty, welcoming community, and a proven tradition of excellence
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Quick access via I-95, US-1, or PGA Boulevard
Academic Programs for Palm Beach Gardens Students
Montessori Preschool & Pre-K
For children ages 18 months to Kindergarten, our Montessori-inspired program encourages early academic discovery, independence, and joy in learning. Many Palm Beach Gardens parents begin their Rosarian journey here, drawn by our reputation for nurturing confident and curious young minds.
Elementary School (Grades 1–4)
Our Lower School offers a rigorous curriculum supported by small class sizes and individualized instruction. Students explore core subjects along with art, technology, music, and physical education, developing critical thinking and character in equal measure.
Middle School (Grades 5–8)
Middle School students from Palm Beach Gardens are empowered through departmental teaching, honors-level classes, and elective options in STEM, fine arts, and languages. Our approach prepares them not only for high school success but for meaningful leadership rooted in integrity.
Faith-Driven, Purpose-Built Education
At Rosarian, faith is not just practiced, it’s lived. Students from Palm Beach Gardens experience:
- Daily prayer and moral reflection
- Monthly Mass and school-wide liturgies
- Regular service initiatives that foster gratitude and social responsibility
- A spiritual environment that is Catholic in tradition, yet inclusive of all beliefs
We strive to instill values that remain with students for life: compassion, courage, responsibility, and faith.
Easy Access from Palm Beach Gardens
Rosarian Academy is a convenient 20-minute commute from Palm Beach Gardens, with direct routes via PGA Boulevard, Northlake Boulevard, and I-95 South. Families from neighborhoods such as Evergrene, Mirasol, Old Palm, Frenchman’s Reserve, and Alton enjoy easy morning drop-offs and the peace of mind that comes with knowing their child is in a trusted, enriching environment.
Rosarian by the Numbers
✓ 100 Years of Educational Leadership
✓ 478 Students | 96 Caring Faculty & Staff
✓ 13 Competitive Sports Programs
✓ Full integration of smart technology in all classrooms
✓ Dedicated STEM Lab, Fine Arts Wing, and Digital Media Center
✓ High School Credit Options in:
— Algebra I Honors
— Algebra II Honors
— Geometry Honors
— Spanish I
✓ Accredited by SAIS and Cognia
Arts, Athletics, and Student Life Enrichment
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The Arts
Our vibrant arts program helps students express their unique gifts through:
- Drawing, painting, and mixed media
- Choir and instrumental ensembles
- Stage performances including musicals and seasonal plays
- Participation in public exhibitions and showcases
Athletics
Palm Beach Gardens students compete in:
- Basketball, soccer, lacrosse, swimming, volleyball, and more
- Interscholastic and intramural programs
- Skill-building teams with a focus on discipline, health, and sportsmanship
Leadership & Clubs
We support student voice and leadership through:
- Student Council and Ambassador Program
- Three competitive levels of robotics
- Math Club and STEM enrichment
- National Junior Honor Society for qualified students
Our Mission
Rosarian Academy’s mission is to educate the whole person in the light of the Gospel. Inspired by Dominican values, we guide students to seek truth, serve others, build community, and achieve academic excellence, all in preparation for a life of purpose and leadership.
Proudly Serving Palm Beach Gardens and Palm Beach County
We welcome students from across Palm Beach Gardens, including PGA National, San Michele, Ballenisles, and Palm Beach Country Estates, as well as nearby communities like Juno Beach, North Palm Beach, and Jupiter. Our regional draw reflects our longstanding reputation for nurturing excellence, faith, and integrity in every child.
Nearby Amenities & Parent Convenience
Parents from Palm Beach Gardens enjoy the proximity of Rosarian Academy to popular West Palm Beach destinations such as The Square, The Royal Poinciana Plaza, and Clematis Street. Coffee at Panther Coffee, shopping at Hive Collective, or lunch at Grato makes school-day errands easier and more enjoyable. Whether commuting or carpooling, Rosarian fits seamlessly into the daily rhythm of busy families.
Visit Rosarian Academy
We invite Palm Beach Gardens families to experience Rosarian in person. Tour our campus, speak with our faculty, and discover why so many families choose to make the short trip south for an education that lasts a lifetime.
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.
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
- Beautiful and convenient waterfront location in Palm Beach County
