Latest News
Welcome to the Highlands School News Media page, where we showcase the latest highlights and accolades featuring our vibrant school community. Here, you’ll find a curated collection of news articles, feature stories, and media coverage that celebrate the remarkable achievements and ongoing initiatives of our students, faculty, and alumni. From academic triumphs to extracurricular accomplishments, our media coverage reflects the dynamic and innovative spirit that defines Highlands School. Dive in to see how our school is making headlines and shaping the future with excellence and dedication.
Claudia Nachtigal Named "The Face of Education That Works" by Baltimore Magazine
Private school kicks off $5M capital campaign
June 17, 2026
https://www.bizjournals.com/baltimore/news/2026/06/17/8-things-to-know-highlands-school-bel-air-campaign.html
Claudia Nachtigal, Head of The Highlands School, Named to The Daily Record’s 2026 List of Top 100 Women
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The Highlands School Named Best Private School and Best Principal in Best of Harford 2025
Bel Air, Md. — [2025] — The Highlands School has been named Best Private School in the 2025 Best of Harford awards, while Head of School Claudia Nachtigal was named Best Principal, marking a significant recognition for the Bel Air school and its work serving students with learning differences.
The annual Best of Harford awards are determined by community voting and recognize outstanding businesses, organizations, and professionals throughout Harford County.
“This recognition belongs to our entire Highlands community,” said Nachtigal. “Our teachers and staff come to school every day believing that children learn differently—and that different does not mean less. They work incredibly hard to help each student discover how they learn best, build confidence, and experience success.”
The Highlands School is an independent K–8 school specializing in educating students with language-based learning differences, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, and executive functioning challenges. Through small-group, evidence-based instruction and a highly individualized approach, Highlands helps students develop the academic skills, independence, and self-advocacy they need to succeed in high school and beyond.
The Best Private School recognition comes during a period of significant growth for The Highlands School, as more families throughout Harford County and the surrounding region seek specialized educational options for children who learn differently.
Nachtigal has served as Head of School since 2022 and has led Highlands through a period of enrollment growth, program development, increased community engagement, and strengthened financial sustainability.
“To be named Best Private School is especially meaningful because our students have often spent years feeling as though school wasn’t designed for them,” Nachtigal said. “At Highlands, they discover that they are capable learners. Sometimes they simply needed to be taught differently.”
The Highlands School is located in Bel Air, Maryland, and has served students with learning differences and their families for nearly 30 years.
The Highlands School Hosts Second Annual Derby Day Event
May 19, 2025
The Highlands School’s 22nd Annual Big Event Raises Over $300k for Students in the Community
The Highlands School Appoints Greg Derwart and David Eusanio to Board
October 16, 2024
patch.com/maryland/belair/new-preschool-opening-fall-bel-air
The Highlands School is prepping for their annual Big Event
Children need more playtime, less phone time
September 20, 2024
Children need more playtime, less phone time | READER COMMENTARY
Highland School implements strict cellphone policy with “phone home” to enhance student focus
Local School Bans Cell Phones
July 2, 2024
foxbaltimore.com/morning/local-school-bans-cell-phone-use-in-classrooms