Crane is a great k-8 independent school. They have strong academics, sports and art programs. In the lower school (k-5) there are about 20 kids and 2 teachers per class. In the upper school (6-8) the kids move around to classes with about 15 kids per class. Kids are taught to think independently and feel very comfortable speaking in public. Each 8th grader is required to speak in front of the school on a topic of their choice. Crane has a very competitive sports program where some 85% of the kids play one or more sports. Everyone plays and the school is known for producing many athletes who go on to play in high school and college. I don't put a huge value on art and drama but the school is also well known for these great programs. What I really like is the kids are exposed to so many different areas and it turned out my kid was really talented in art which was a big surprise to us.The big gripe is Crane is hard to get into - too many people applying for few spots.