The Best Private Schools in Little Rock, Arkansas
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Little Rock. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Anthony School
Independent
The Anthony School has built a reputation for innovative, child-centered education that nurtures individual talents while maintaining academic excellence. Serving students from preschool through 8th grade, the school emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and character development. The curriculum includes advanced mathematics, comprehensive language arts, and specialized programs for gifted students. Facilities feature modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and outdoor learning spaces. Parents consistently praise the school's supportive community and dedicated faculty.
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Pulaski Academy
Independent
Pulaski Academy is consistently ranked as one of Arkansas's top private schools, known for its rigorous college preparatory curriculum and exceptional facilities. The school serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade and boasts a 100% college acceptance rate. Notable features include state-of-the-art STEM labs, championship athletic programs, and extensive arts offerings. The campus spans 40 acres with modern academic buildings, performing arts centers, and athletic facilities. Parent satisfaction is exceptionally high due to small class sizes and personalized attention.
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Episcopal Collegiate School
Independent
Episcopal Collegiate School offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 12th grade education grounded in the Episcopal tradition, emphasizing academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community service. The school features a robust Advanced Placement program, with graduates consistently attending top-tier colleges and universities. Campus facilities include modern academic buildings, science and technology centers, athletic complexes, and performing arts spaces. The school is particularly noted for its strong sense of community, honor code, and leadership development programs that prepare students for success beyond graduation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Little Rock, Arkansas
What are the main types of private schools available in Little Rock, Arkansas, and how do they differ?
Little Rock offers a diverse range of private schools, primarily categorized as independent non-sectarian, faith-based, and college-preparatory institutions. Top schools like Pulaski Academy and The Anthony School are independent, offering rigorous academics with extensive extracurriculars. Episcopal Collegiate School provides a college-prep education within an Episcopal tradition. You'll also find Catholic schools like Mount St. Mary Academy and Christ the King, as well as other Christian academies. The key differences lie in educational philosophy, religious affiliation (or lack thereof), campus culture, and programmatic focus, such as Episcopal's emphasis on community service or Pulaski Academy's renowned athletic programs.
How does tuition for private schools in Little Rock, AR, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options exist?
Tuition in Little Rock is generally higher than the Arkansas state average for private education, reflecting the city's role as the capital and its concentration of premier institutions. For K-12, annual tuition can range from approximately $10,000 to over $20,000. Most major schools, including Pulaski Academy, Episcopal Collegiate, and The Anthony School, offer robust need-based financial aid programs. Additionally, Arkansas's Succeed Scholarship Program for students with disabilities and the state's tax-credited Philanthropic Investment in Arkansas Kids (PIAK) program can provide assistance to eligible families. It's crucial to apply for financial aid directly through the school's admission office, as deadlines are often early in the enrollment cycle.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are signature offerings at leading Little Rock private schools?
Several Little Rock private schools have developed distinctive programs. Pulaski Academy is nationally recognized for its "No-Zone" offense in football and its policy of never punting, but also for a mandatory entrepreneurship course and a renowned debate program. Episcopal Collegiate School emphasizes global studies and requires an interim term for immersive learning projects. The Anthony School is noted for its advanced, self-paced curriculum starting in early childhood and its strong focus on STEM. Many schools also leverage Little Rock's position as the state capital, offering government internships and robust civic engagement programs not commonly found elsewhere in Arkansas.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in Little Rock?
The process for top Little Rock private schools is highly structured and begins early. For schools like Pulaski Academy, Episcopal Collegiate, and The Anthony School, the main application cycle opens in August/September for the following academic year, with deadlines for applications and financial aid requests typically falling between January and February. The process usually includes a completed application, school records, teacher recommendations, a student assessment or entrance exam, and a family interview. Many schools host open houses in the fall. Due to competitive spaces, especially in entry grades (Pre-K, Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th), it is strongly advised to start the process at least a year in advance.
For families moving to Little Rock, how do the top private schools compare to the highest-rated public school districts in the area?
This is a key consideration. Little Rock is served by the Little Rock School District (LRSD), which includes selective magnet programs like Central High and eSTEM, and by the high-performing Pulaski County Special School District (PCSSD) suburbs like Maumelle. The primary differentiators for private schools include smaller class sizes (often 15-20 students vs. 25+ in public), more individualized attention, distinct educational philosophies (like Montessori or classical), and often more extensive resources in arts, athletics, and technology. Private schools also offer continuity from K-12, whereas public school zoning may change. However, top public magnet programs are academically rigorous and tuition-free. The choice often hinges on values alignment, specific student needs, and the desire for a particular community environment that private schools in Little Rock cultivate.
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