A non-sectarian independent school under the direction of its own board, Thaden School offers a challenging and innovative educational program that ignites in students a passion for discovery and learning, prepares them to succeed in college, and inspires them to lead lives of integrity, purpose, and responsible global citizenship. At the core of the school’s mission is a commitment to balance that takes many forms: a curriculum that integrates the sciences and the humanities; indoor and outdoor teaching spaces where sustainability is a tangible part of the lesson; hands-on programs for civic engagement; athletics and physical education programs that build confidence and character through competition and meaningful participation; and a diverse faculty and staff that empower students to think deeply and expansively about their potential and place in the world. The school’s remarkably robust indexed tuition program supports the creation of a balanced learning community where students of many perspectives, talents, and interests come learn and grow stronger together. Located on a 30-acre campus in downtown Bentonville, the school is walking distance from the town square, Bright...water Culinary Institute, The Momentary (Crystal Bridges’ center for contemporary arts), and a variety of other educational resources. The school has also engaged a world-class team of architects to design an enduring and innovative campus that will spark curiosity, inspire creativity, and invite reflection. The principal designer, Marlon Blackwell, is the 2020 recipient of the American Institute of Architect’s Gold Medal, the Institute’s highest honor. The school’s first permanent buildings opened last fall, and the campus master plan will be completed in the fall of 2021. With more than 500,000 residents, the region combines a thriving economy with the natural beauty of the Ozarks and a rich variety of cultural and recreational amenities such as the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the Razorback Regional Greenway, the Scott Family Amazeum, and the Bentonville Film Festival. Northwest Arkansas is also home to the world headquarters of three Fortune 500 companies (Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt) as well as the University of Arkansas. For more information about the region and its national rankings, see Finding NWA and the website for the Northwest Arkansas Council. The school’s website features videos and additional information regarding its educational programs, faculty and leadership.