History

In 1929, a group of local parents established a progressive, independent, school in Erie. Their goal was to provide a school with a new philosophy which would encourage freedom of movement in the classroom, learning through practical experience, and close cooperation between school and parents. Our founders felt that, if children were trained to know how and where to find the facts they needed and if they acquired the ability to assemble and organize this information, they would possess something more valuable than an undigested mass of knowledge. They felt that school life should arouse the pupil to self activity and to the development of self discipline and community cooperation. 

Erie industrialist Charles Hemet Strong donated the real estate for the campus and much of the funding for the first classroom building, the Spencer Building, which now houses the Preschool and Kindergarten. The doors of Erie Day School opened for the first time on October 1, 1929 to fifty students. 

Through the years, with the enthusiastic support of parents, past parents, grandparents, alumni and members of the Erie community, the school has grown in physical plant, programs, students, and spirit. 

Consistent with it philosophical roots, Erie Day School continues to provide a place to learn where personal contact and human sensitivity prevail; where individual talents, traits and abilities are discerned and cultivated; where a student’s capability level takes precedent over designated grade level; where motivating students to both learn and appreciate learning assures they acquire tools and skills necessary for a lifetime of effective and rewarding learning. 

In philosophy and curriculum, from the beginning up to today, Erie Day School provides its students with educational opportunities available at no other school in the area.