Rosarian Academy
Royal Palm BeachPrivate Catholic School Serving Royal Palm Beach Families
Rosarian Academy proudly welcomes students from Royal Palm Beach who seek a faith-based education rooted in academic excellence, character development, and community. Established in 1925 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters, Rosarian offers programs for children 18 months through 8th grade, built upon the Dominican pillars of prayer, community, study, and service.
Our scenic campus, located in West Palm Beach along the Intracoastal Waterway, is just a 30-minute drive east of Royal Palm Beach, making Rosarian a natural choice for families looking for something beyond the traditional neighborhood school.
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 Royal Palm Beach Families Choose Rosarian
- One of the only independent Catholic schools in Palm Beach County
- Personalized learning environment with a 7:1 student–faculty ratio
- Emphasis on values, integrity, and spiritual formation
- Strong record of high school acceptances and academic success
- Robust programs in fine arts, athletics, STEM, and leadership
- Easy commute via Southern Blvd, Okeechobee Blvd, or Florida’s Turnpike
Academic Programs for Royal Palm Beach Students
Montessori Preschool & Pre-K
In our Early Childhood Program, children ages 18 months to Kindergarten learn through a Montessori-inspired curriculum that supports independence, kindness, and joyful discovery. Parents in Royal Palm Beach choose Rosarian for our calm, respectful environment that prepares children academically and socially from the very beginning.
Elementary School (Grades 1–4)
Our Lower School fosters a love of learning through personalized instruction in reading, math, science, and social studies, with enrichment in music, art, PE, and technology. Students from Royal Palm Beach thrive in this nurturing but academically strong setting, guided by expert faculty who focus on developing both skill and spirit.
Middle School (Grades 5–8)
Our departmentalized Middle School program challenges students with honors-level courses, leadership opportunities, and a wide range of electives, from STEM and foreign language to visual arts and theater. Rosarian students graduate with confidence and are well-prepared for high school and life beyond.
A Faith-Based Community for All Families
At Rosarian, our Catholic identity is the foundation of everything we do. But families from all backgrounds are welcomed into our inclusive, spiritually enriching environment. Students from Royal Palm Beach benefit from:
- Daily prayer and classroom reflection
- Monthly school-wide Mass and liturgical celebrations
- Community service projects woven into school life
- A moral framework that guides students toward empathy, respect, and responsibility
Convenient for Royal Palm Beach Commuters
Rosarian Academy is located about 30 minutes from Royal Palm Beach, with direct routes via Southern Boulevard, SR-7 (US-441), and Okeechobee Boulevard. Families from neighborhoods such as Madison Green, Counterpoint Estates, Bella Terra, La Mancha, and Victoria Groves find the commute both manageable and well worth the investment in their children’s future.
Rosarian by the Numbers
✓ 100 Years of Faithful Service to Palm Beach County
✓ 478 Students | 96 Faculty & Staff
✓ 13 Interscholastic Sports Teams
✓ State-of-the-art STEM and Fine Arts Facilities
✓ Fully Integrated Smart Technology in Every Classroom
✓ High School Credit Courses in:
— Algebra I & II Honors
— Geometry Honors
— Spanish I
✓ Accredited by SAIS and Cognia
Enriching Student Life in Arts, Athletics & More
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The Arts
We offer a rich array of creative opportunities, including:
- Studio art, painting, and sculpture
- Music instruction and choir
- Fall and spring theatrical productions
- Public showcases and performance events
Athletics
Our interscholastic and intramural athletics help students stay active and build confidence:
- Basketball, soccer, volleyball, swimming, lacrosse, and more
- A focus on sportsmanship, teamwork, and health
- Coaching and facilities that support skill development at all levels
Leadership & Clubs
Rosarian’s vibrant co-curricular life includes:
- STEM and robotics (3 competitive levels)
- National Junior Honor Society
- Student Council and Ambassador Program
Our Mission
Rosarian Academy, founded in the Dominican Catholic tradition, educates the whole child, mind, body, and spirit, through academic challenge, faith development, and a commitment to service. Our students are prepared not just for high school, but for a life of purpose and leadership.
Serving Royal Palm Beach and Western Palm Beach County
Rosarian Academy proudly serves families from across Royal Palm Beach, including communities like PortoSol, Saratoga Lakes, Palm Beach Plantation, and Huntington Woods, as well as surrounding areas like Wellington, Loxahatchee, and The Acreage. Our diverse, welcoming school community reflects our belief in the dignity and potential of every student.
Parent Lifestyle & Nearby Amenities
Parents commuting from Royal Palm Beach love that Rosarian is just minutes from key West Palm Beach destinations. Whether stopping at Hive Bakery, grabbing lunch at Grato, or working from a café in The Square, families enjoy flexibility and convenience before or after school drop-off.
Visit Rosarian Academy
We invite Royal Palm Beach families to visit Rosarian Academy and explore the programs, values, and people that make our school an outstanding choice. Come see what a difference a mission-driven education can make.
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
