Private Schools

Overview

Private schools are tuition-based non-public schools. Each private school has its own application process. Private schools design their own curricula reflective of their school’s mission and values, and they evaluate students based on their own internal benchmarks.

Types of Private Schools

Private independent schools are tuition-funded non-public schools that are operated by a Board of Trustees and senior leadership team. To attend an independent school, you must apply and be accepted to the school and agree upon a financial aid package that fits your family’s budget if you anticipate need. 

Private religious schools are tuition-funded non-public schools founded by a religious organization, often a church, mosque or synagogue.  You do not need to share the faith of the school to attend a private religious school. You must apply, be accepted and agree to respect the religious tenets of the school. You must also agree upon a financial package if you anticipate need. Families who belong to a given church, mosque or synagogue often receive more significant tuition assistance than those of different faiths. Private religious schools are more affordable than private independent schools, as funding from the overarching religious organization supports school programming. 

How to Apply

The admission process for private and private religious schools begins the fall before a student wishes to enroll. From September-April, parents can expect to attend open houses and submit applications, teacher recommendations, report cards and test scores. Some schools may require a family interview. Students should expect to visit each campus for a day, complete admission testing and do a student interview. To review financial aid, parents must complete a financial aid form and submit their most recent tax returns. Inquire at each prospective school for admission process specifics.