History and Mission

The history of Lawrence Woodmere Academy began more than a century ago with the founding of Lawrence Country Day School in 1891 and Woodmere Academy in 1912. The 1990 merger of these two respected schools resulted in the strongest source for independent secondary education on the south shore of Long Island. The blended alumni community continues to give back to the school that enthusiastically carries on their vibrant legacies and traditions.

The founders of Woodmere Academy adopted a motto of Disce Servire, "Learn to Serve." When Woodmere Academy and Lawrence Country Day School merged, this motto was expanded to Veritas, Integritas, Servitium, "Truth, Integrity, Service," reflecting the values of all students and preserving the strong traditions. Our students internalize the values of this motto through leadership programs, community service, participation on teams, and the opportunity to question and discuss the world around them.

A strong sense of belonging is the cornerstone of the Lawrence Woodmere Academy experience. Our students come from all parts of Long Island, Brooklyn, and Queens, as well as countries abroad. A microcosm of the world at its best, our students see themselves as a family, appreciating one another's individual qualities. This collaborative spirit extends to our parents, whom we value as partners in their children's education, and to our trustees, whom we thank for their dedicated governance and work behind the scenes to strengthen this great school. Only 20 miles from Midtown Manhattan, LWA's beautiful seven-acre campus in Woodmere holds a world of opportunities for all who attend.