Frequently Asked Questions

About Westminster Schools of Augusta

What is Westminster Schools of Augusta?

Westminster Schools of Augusta is an independent, coeducational, college-preparatory Christian day school located on a 34-acre campus in Augusta, Georgia. Founded in 1972 as a ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Augusta, the school serves students from age 3 (PK3) through 12th grade. Westminster is dually accredited by the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

What grades does Westminster serve?

Westminster serves students from PK3 (age 3) through 12th grade. The school is organized into three divisions: Lower School (PK3 through grade 5, housed in Pamplin Hall), Middle School (grades 6 through 8), and High School (grades 9 through 12). Middle and High School students share some of the main campus buildings, including Knox Hall, which opened in 2017.

How many students attend Westminster?

Westminster currently enrolls approximately 630 students across all grade levels, PK3 through 12th grade. 

What is the student-teacher ratio?

Westminster currently has a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 7 to 1, which allows for personalized attention and strong relationships between faculty and students.

What is Westminster's mission?

Westminster's mission is to glorify God by providing an excellent education that equips students to live extraordinary lives for Jesus Christ. The school integrates Christian principles into every aspect of the educational experience, including academics, arts, athletics, and community life. Westminster nurtures each student's unique gifts while developing critical thinking skills, creativity, and strong moral character.

Where is Westminster Schools of Augusta located?

Westminster is located at 3067 Wheeler Road in Augusta, Georgia 30909, in the historic Hill area of West Augusta. The 34-acre wooded campus is just a few miles from Augusta National Golf Club. The school draws families from across the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), including Augusta, Evans, Martinez, Appling, North Augusta, Aiken, and surrounding communities in both Georgia and South Carolina.

What are the school hours?

All divisions begin at 8:00 a.m.
• PK3–Kindergarten: Dismiss at 2:35 p.m.
• 1st–5th Grades: Dismiss at 3:00 p.m.
• Middle & High School (6th–12th): Dismiss at 3:15 p.m.
Supervised care is available before school, beginning at 7:30 a.m.

Do you have an after-school program?

Yes. Our XD (Extended Day) program provides care and enrichment after school, giving Lower School students a safe, engaging place to learn, create, and play beyond the school day. Westminster’s XD program is designed to develop each child’s strengths in a fun, caring environment led by trusted staff.

• XD Jr (PK3–K): 2:35–4:30 p.m.
• XD (1st–5th): 3:00–4:30 p.m.
Students enjoy a snack and then participate in age-appropriate enrichment activities called Xplorations, which rotate in four eight-week sessions throughout the year. Popular offerings have included painting, STEM and coding, voice and instrument lessons like guitar, piano, and trumpet, foreign language, soccer, golf, tennis, cheerleading, scrapbooking, LegoⓇ club, karate, cooking, and many more innovative offerings that help students explore new interests and talents.

• After Care (all Lower School): 4:30–6:00 p.m.
For families who need a later pickup time, After Care provides additional supervised time for organized games, arts and crafts, outdoor play, and homework.

The XD and After Care programs are accredited and thoughtfully designed to provide a safe, innovative, and fun environment that supports the development and creativity of every child. 

Sample XD Class Overview

Does Westminster follow a classical model of education?

Westminster Schools of Augusta provides a rigorous college-preparatory academic program designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed for success in college and beyond. Rather than following a classical model, Westminster focuses on a dynamic and engaging curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, strong writing, and real-world application across all subject areas. Students benefit from a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment courses, allowing them to pursue challenging academic opportunities and earn college credit while still in high school. At the same time, Westminster remains deeply rooted in its Christian mission, with Biblical truth and a strong humanities foundation intentionally woven throughout the curriculum, helping students develop both intellectual excellence and a Christ-centered worldview.

Admissions and Enrollment

How do I apply to Westminster Schools of Augusta?

The admissions process begins with submitting an inquiry through the school website or by contacting the Admissions Office at 706-731-5260, extension 2220. From there, families are encouraged to schedule a campus tour and complete an application (which includes a $75 application fee).  The admissions process includes testing, submission of required school records, and a family interview. The admissions team will guide you through every step of the process.

Can I schedule a tour of Westminster?

Yes. Westminster encourages every prospective family to visit campus. You can schedule a tour directly through the school website or by calling the Admissions Office at 706-731-5260, extension 2220. During your visit, you will see the campus facilities, meet faculty and staff, and experience the Westminster community firsthand. The admissions team can also help out-of-town families with recommendations for accommodations and local activities.

What are the admission requirements?

Westminster seeks to admit students who demonstrate the potential and desire to engage in a challenging, Christ-centered academic environment. Admissions decisions are made holistically and consider multiple factors to ensure each student is a good fit for the school’s mission and expectations. These include:

• A review of academic readiness or achievement through previous school records.

• Teacher recommendations that speak to the student’s performance, work habits, and character.
• Results from admissions testing or evaluations appropriate for the student’s grade level.
• A family interview with the admissions team to discuss goals, values, and mission alignment.
• Assessment of social and behavioral maturity, motivation, and a cooperative spirit.
• Students are typically expected to be performing at or above grade level.

Westminster does not discriminate in its admissions process and welcomes students from diverse backgrounds.  We believe in the inerrancy of Scripture and teach unapologetically from a biblical worldview. God’s Word is the foundation that guides our beliefs, policies, and daily life as a school community, and we welcome families eager to embrace and engage in such a Christian education.

Our convictions are rooted in faithfulness to Scripture, not in hostility toward those who may hold different views. As followers of Christ, we are called to love others as He has loved us. We believe truth and love are inseparable and are committed to demonstrating compassion, patience, and respect toward all people.

Is there admissions testing?

Yes. All applicants go through an admissions review that includes testing. The admissions office will coordinate testing time with each family. Testing is administered on the school campus during school hours. For families currently living outside of the Augusta area, Westminster does offer a standardized online testing option. Westminster is looking for students who are at or above grade level academically and who will thrive in a rigorous college-preparatory environment.

Can my child transfer to Westminster mid-year?

Westminster considers transfer students throughout the school year, depending on availability in the grade level. The admissions team works with each family individually to evaluate academic records and determine the best placement. In some cases, students transferring from a different academic environment may be recommended to repeat a grade to ensure they are positioned for success in Westminster's rigorous curriculum.

What if my child is not on grade level?

Westminster's admissions testing helps determine whether a student is prepared for the academic expectations of their grade level. If testing indicates a student is performing below grade level, the admissions team will discuss options with the family. In many cases, families choose to have their child repeat a grade, which gives them a strong foundation for success. This is especially common with younger students transitioning from a different school environment. Westminster offers a transitional kindergarten program specifically to provide young five-year old students additional time and support before entering a more rigorous academic program. For more information on transitional kindergarten, see curriculum highlights here.

What is Transitional Kindergarten?

Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is a program that provides children with the benefit of an additional year to grow and mature socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically before entering kindergarten.  

Who is Transitional Kindergarten designed for?

TK is ideal for children who would benefit from extra time to develop foundational skills, confidence, leadership abilities, and readiness for a traditional kindergarten classroom.

What are the academic focuses of the program?

The program emphasizes language and literacy development, building a strong foundation in phonemic awareness and early reading skills. Students also develop early math concepts through hands-on learning.

How does Transitional Kindergarten support literacy development?

Students participate in structured language and literacy lessons designed to strengthen phonemic awareness, reading readiness, and handwriting skills using proven curriculum resources.

What makes your Transitional Kindergarten program unique?

• Small class sizes allow for individualized instruction.
• Students receive intentional leadership development opportunities.
• The program nurtures the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

What curriculum components are included?

Core Features include:

• Bible and Scripture Memory
• Handwriting Without Tears
• Teaching Trailblazers
• Gardening
• Learning Centers and Classroom Roles
• Early Math Concepts

Are there co-curricular classes included?

Yes. Transitional Kindergarten students participate in:

• Art
• Music
• Physical Education (PE)
• Innovation Lab (STEM)
• Library

What is the goal of Transitional Kindergarten?

The goal is to give children the gift of time and space to grow into the person God has created them to be, while building strong academic and character foundations.

Tuition, Financial Aid, and Affordability

How much does tuition cost at Westminster Schools of Augusta?

Annual tuition for the 2026-27 school year is as follows: PK3 and PK4 morning only (8:00 AM to 12:00 PM) is $7,000. PK3 and PK4 full-day and Transitional Kindergarten are $11,000. Kindergarten is $13,000. Grades 1 through 5 are $16,775. Grades 6 through 8 are $18,360. Grades 9 through 12 are $18,990. Tuition includes books, athletics programs, and most field trips. A technology fee also applies depending on grade level.

Does Westminster offer financial aid?

Yes. More than 30 percent of the Westminster student body receives some form of financial assistance. The school offers both merit-based scholarships and need-based tuition assistance beginning in kindergarten. Westminster uses third-party software, Financial Aid Management, to evaluate each family's financial situation. The school is committed to making a Westminster education accessible to qualified families.  Westminster is a participating school with the Georgia Promise Scholarship.

Does Westminster offer merit scholarships?

Yes. Westminster Schools of Augusta's Honors Scholarships provide outstanding young people with the opportunity to attend school at Westminster with generous scholarship assistance. The Honors Scholarship is not dependent on academic achievement alone but looks for students of strong character, who demonstrate leadership potential and a willing heart to serve others. These qualifications cannot be easily distinguished in written applications and test scores, so a Westminster Experience Day with individual interviews is part of the application process.  The Honors Scholarship, which covers 50% of tuition, is open to both rising 6th and 9th-grade students. The Honors Scholarship is renewable each year for recipients who maintain at least an 85 academic average and continue to demonstrate the qualities of an Honors Scholar.

What tuition discounts are available?

Westminster offers several tuition reduction benefits. Active duty and retired U.S. military families receive a 20 percent tuition reduction in the first year, 10 percent in the second year, and 5 percent in subsequent years. Augusta University and Wellstar MCG Health employees also receive a tuition benefit. Multi-child families receive a discount beginning with the third enrolled child. Members of First Presbyterian Church of Augusta and Westminster alumni receive a tuition benefit as well.  Full time faculty receive a 50 percent tuition reduction for each child.

Is there a military discount for tuition at Westminster?

Yes. Westminster offers a meaningful tuition discount for military families. Active duty and retired members of the U.S. military receive a 20 percent tuition reduction during their first year of enrollment, 10 percent during the second year, and 5 percent for the third year and beyond. Proof of DoD ID is required. This benefit reflects Westminster's commitment to serving military families stationed at Fort Gordon and the surrounding area.

What payment options are available for tuition?

Families can pay tuition in full by mid-May or in 12 monthly installments from May through April through Blackbaud Tuition Management. The monthly payment option includes a $350 annual service charge. Payment can be made by check, eCheck, or credit/debit card. A $600 non-refundable enrollment deposit is required to secure a student's spot and is applied toward the tuition balance. Tuition insurance is also available.

What scholarships are available at Westminster?

Westminster offers several scholarship opportunities, including the Honors Scholarship, which covers 50 percent of tuition for new rising 6th and 9th grade students who demonstrate academic excellence and strong character. The school also participates in the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program, through which eligible students have received over $300,000 per year in scholarship funds. Students have received awards through other charitable and state organizations, including GA Promise, ARETE, Folds of Honor, Georgia Special Needs Scholarship, and Tuttle-Newton.  Beginning in 2028, Westminster hopes to begin offering American GOAL Scholarships through a new federal school choice initiative.  Additional endowed scholarships are awarded annually based on academic merit, Christian character, and financial need.

Academics and College Preparation

What kind of academic program does Westminster offer?

Westminster provides a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum with a biblical worldview integrated into every subject. The school offers 18 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and a Dual Enrollment program through Brewton Parker College, where students can earn more than 20 college credits while still in high school. All courses are taught on the Westminster campus by dedicated faculty. Westminster has been recognized as a Platinum member of the College Board AP School Honor Roll, the highest level of recognition.

How well do Westminster students perform on AP exams?

Westminster students consistently perform at the highest levels on AP exams. In 2025, Westminster students had a 91% pass rate on all AP exams. The school has been named a Platinum member of the College Board AP School Honor Roll for several years in a row, which is the highest recognition level awarded to schools with outstanding AP programs. Entire classes have scored 5s (the highest score) on AP exams, and many graduates begin college with a full year of credits earned through AP and Dual Enrollment coursework.

Where do Westminster graduates attend college?

100 percent of Westminster graduates go on to attend four-year colleges and universities. Recent graduates have been accepted to highly competitive programs, including the University of Georgia Honors Program (Foundations Fellowship), Harvard University, Georgia Institute of Technology, the Naval Academy, Duke University, Rice University, Princeton University, Vanderbilt University, MIT, NYU, Emory and other prestigious institutions across the country. Westminster's college counseling team works with each student individually to prepare them for the application and admission process.

Does Westminster offer academic support for students who need it?

Yes. Westminster provides academic support services to help students succeed in the rigorous college-preparatory curriculum. The school recognizes that every student's academic path is unique and provides personalized support and opportunity at every level. Westminster’s academic support services range from targeted reading and math support in the lower grades for students having difficulty reaching benchmarks to basic accommodations. Upper grades focus on executive functioning and study skills.  Although some accommodations from psychiatric evaluations can be provided, we will only provide accommodations that maintain the standard and rigor of the coursework. Westminster’s Academic Support does not offer specialized courses in core content, and students in the program are required to complete the same coursework as their peers. At this time Westminster does not offer services to students with significant deficits in academic performance nor can we provide support for students with significant behavioral challenges. Our teachers and staff work with students to cultivate God-given abilities and prepare students for independent learning. Faculty members are accessible and invested in each student's growth, both academically, personally, and spiritually.

Is Westminster a cell phone-free school?

Yes. Westminster maintains a cell phone-free environment during the school day. This policy allows students to focus on learning, engage fully in classroom discussions, and build authentic relationships with their peers and teachers without the distractions of personal devices.

 

Faith and Spiritual Life

How is Christianity integrated into the Westminster experience?

Christianity is woven into every aspect of life at Westminster. Course subjects are taught from a biblical worldview, and Bible courses are integrated into the core curriculum. We desire that students know and enjoy Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior and grow in a relationship with Him.  The spiritual lives of students are developed as they participate in weekly chapel services, discipleship groups, prayer, worship, and service to others. Westminster seeks to place Jesus Christ at the center of everything it does.

Do students need to be Christian to attend Westminster?

Westminster welcomes families of all faith backgrounds who are seeking a Christ-centered educational environment. While the school's mission is rooted in the Christian faith and biblical principles are integrated throughout the curriculum and community life, families do not need to be members of a specific denomination to enroll. We are a ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Augusta and Westminster values partnering with families who support the school's mission and desire a faith-based education for their children.

 

Athletics and Extracurricular Activities

What sports does Westminster offer?

Westminster offers 42 athletic teams across middle school and varsity levels, with approximately 90 percent of students participating in at least one sport. Sports include football, basketball, soccer, tennis, track and field, cross country, baseball, golf, swimming, volleyball, pickleball, cheerleading, clay shooting, and more. Westminster has consistently won state championships (26 and counting!) and was voted the number one high school for athletics in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA).

Does Westminster have a fine arts program?

Yes. Westminster's fine arts program includes visual arts, chorus, band, theater, and drama. Students perform in concerts, theatrical productions, art showcases, and competitions throughout the year. The program has received high recognition at both the state and national levels. Fine arts instruction and band are also integrated into the Lower School classroom experience, giving younger students exposure to creative expression from an early age.

Westminster seeks to infuse the arts into every aspect of the student experience—even in athletics. One of the best examples of this is the Spirit Band, which has become a favorite part of many Westminster football games and special events. Led by band director Tommy Brinson, the group brings unmatched energy and excitement to the stadium, performing lively music that rallies the crowd and supports our teams. Their performances are a highlight for students, families, and alumni, showcasing the musical talent and dedication of Westminster’s student musicians. The Spirit Band adds a unique and memorable atmosphere to Westminster events, making game nights an experience the entire community looks forward to.

What after-school programs are available?

Westminster offers a range of after-school programs for Lower School students. Westminster XD Jr. (PK3 through Kindergarten) runs from 2:35 to 4:30 PM. Westminster XD (Grades 1 through 5) runs from 3:00 to 4:30 PM. After Care is available from 4:30 to 6:00 PM for all Lower School grades. Activities include soccer, karate, golf, tennis, art, cooking, coding, band, and many more. Stay and Play is also available on Lower School half-days.

Does Westminster offer summer camps?

Yes. Westminster's Camp Wildcat offers a variety of summer programs for children, combining fun, education, sports, STEM activities, crafts, and opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. Westminster offers Full-day and Half-day camps that run Monday through Friday. Registration typically opens in early spring, and information can be found on the website www.wsa.net/summer

Campus Safety and Student Life

How does Westminster keep students safe?

Safety is a top priority at Westminster. The school provides armed, certified law enforcement officers from the Richmond County Sheriff's Office on campus during all school hours. Officers are in uniform and equipped with marked patrol vehicles. The campus security program is led by an experienced officer with over 21 years of active law enforcement experience, including SWAT operations and school incident response training. Westminster coordinates with local law enforcement to ensure continuous, real-time security coverage. Westminster Schools of Augusta is a secure, gated campus. Visitors are required to check in at the main office and present a valid state-issued ID before receiving approval to access the campus.

What is the lunch program like at Westminster?

Westminster offers a high-quality private school dining program in Augusta, Georgia, partnering with Flik Independent School Dining to provide fresh, nutritious, made-from-scratch meals prepared daily on campus by Chef Keith Boring and his culinary team. Students enjoy a wide variety of healthy lunch options, including gourmet soups, fresh salads, hot entrées, pizza, pasta, and deli selections designed to fuel learning, athletics, and student life. Westminster operates two campus cafeterias to serve students across all grade levels: the Pamplin Hall cafeteria for Lower School students and the Knox Hall cafeteria for Upper  School students. The Westminster school lunch program emphasizes quality ingredients, balanced nutrition, and variety while following all CDC food safety guidelines to ensure meals are prepared and served in a safe, clean environment for students each day.

What is the Westminster campus like?

Westminster's campus spans 34 acres in the historic Hill area of West Augusta. The wooded, park-like grounds include tree-lined buildings, athletic fields, cross-country trails, and outdoor classroom spaces, including a memorial garden that doubles as an outdoor chapel. Lower School students have their own building (Pamplin Hall, built in 1999), while Middle and Upper School students use the main campus buildings, including Knox Hall, which opened in 2017. Our high school is situated on a campus designed to feel open and collegiate, giving students the experience of moving between buildings and spaces much like they would on a college campus.

Does Westminster have a dress code?

Yes. Westminster students in grades 1-12 wear uniforms during the school day. The uniform policy is designed to promote a focused learning environment and a sense of community. Guidelines vary slightly by division, and details about specific uniform requirements, approved styles, and where to purchase uniforms are available through the school's uniform guide on the Westminster website. Students in PK3 - Kindergarten are not required to wear uniforms. 

Relocating to Augusta

We are relocating to the Augusta area. Is Westminster a good fit for military families?

Yes. Westminster has a strong tradition of welcoming military families stationed at Fort Gordon (formerly Eisenhower) and those relocating to the Augusta, Grovetown, Evans, and Appling areas. The school offers a 20 percent military tuition discount in the first year, with additional discounts in subsequent years. The admissions team has experience helping military families navigate the enrollment process during relocation and can connect you with other military families in the Westminster community. Westminster's stable, safe, and Christ-centered environment provides consistency for students during transitions.

Does Westminster serve families from South Carolina?

Yes. Westminster draws students from both Georgia and South Carolina. Many families from North Augusta, Aiken, and other communities in South Carolina cross the Savannah River daily to attend Westminster. The school's location on Wheeler Road provides easy access from South Carolina, and families regularly commute from 30 or more miles away because of the quality of education Westminster provides.

How can Westminster help our family during relocation to Augusta?

The Westminster admissions team is ready to help families who are relocating to Augusta and the surrounding areas. They can provide recommendations for accommodations if you are visiting from out of town, connect you with current families who have gone through a similar relocation, and suggest activities and resources to help your family get settled. To get started, contact the Admissions Office at 706-731-5260, extension 2220, or submit an inquiry through the school website.

How can parents get involved with the school?

Parents are encouraged to participate through the Westminster Parent Association (WPA), an active parent organization that supports school events, teacher appreciation, community service projects, and fundraising initiatives throughout the year. As a Christian college-preparatory school in Augusta, Georgia, Westminster believes that a student’s success is strengthened through a strong parent-school partnership, and families are invited to play an important role in the educational journey of their children. Parents are encouraged to stay involved in many ways, including volunteering in the classroom, supporting students on the athletic field, assisting with campus events, and serving through the WPA. With volunteer opportunities available across Lower School, Middle School, and Upper School, Westminster provides many meaningful ways for families to stay connected, engaged, and actively involved in the Westminster community. WPA also welcomes skilled volunteers in areas like carpentry, marketing, gardening, and photography.  Contact wpa@wsa.net for more information!