The Program for the Creative and Academically Talented (PCAT) was established at Handley School in 1981 to address the special learning needs of bright children. It is a place where academically talented students find studies, support and guidance to nurture their potential. The program is based on the belief that all children deserve more than simply the opportunity to learn.  Each child should have an atmosphere in which thinking, exploration and creativity are encouraged and celebrated.

The Handley School Foundation was established in 2000 to make dollars available annually, for special programs and materials not possible through the annual Handley PCAT budget. The Handley Foundation exists “to fund programs and processes that promote and develop critical thinking, compassion and contributing global citizens among children and the broader community.” The Handley School Foundation Alumni Scholarship is designed to support past Handley students in their pursuit of higher education in hopes that all graduates of Handley School will continue to have the opportunity to learn.