The Best Private Schools in Frankford, Delaware
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Frankford. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Worcester Preparatory School
Independent
Worcester Preparatory School is an acclaimed independent college preparatory school serving students from Frankford and surrounding areas. Founded in 1976, the school offers rigorous academic programs from Pre-K through 12th grade with exceptional college placement results. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts center, and athletic complex. The curriculum includes extensive Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletics, and comprehensive fine arts programs. With small class sizes and highly qualified faculty, the school maintains a reputation for academic excellence and character development, consistently earning top ratings from parents and educational reviews.
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St. Ann School
Diocese of Wilmington Catholic Schools
St. Ann School is a highly-regarded Catholic private school serving the Frankford and coastal Delaware communities. Established in 1959, the school provides comprehensive education from Pre-K through 8th grade with a strong emphasis on faith-based learning and academic excellence. The school features modern facilities, small class sizes, and a dedicated faculty committed to individualized student development. Programs include robust STEM curriculum, music and arts education, and extensive extracurricular activities. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, strong community values, and excellent preparation for high school.
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Salisbury School
Independent
Salisbury School is a prestigious independent day school serving the Delmarva region, including Frankford families. Established in 1974, the school offers comprehensive education from Pre-K through 12th grade with a strong focus on college preparation. The school features an International Baccalaureate program alongside traditional college preparatory curriculum, extensive athletic facilities, and vibrant arts programs. The 30-acre campus includes modern classrooms, science and technology labs, and performing arts spaces. Known for its supportive community and academic rigor, Salisbury School maintains high parent satisfaction and consistently produces graduates who attend top colleges and universities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Frankford, Delaware
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Frankford, Delaware, and what are their key characteristics?
While Frankford itself is a small coastal town, families typically look to nearby communities for private education. The most prominent options include St. Ann School in nearby Bethany Beach (Pre-K to 8th, Catholic-affiliated), Worcester Preparatory School in Berlin, MD (just across the state line, Pre-K to 12th, college-preparatory), and Salisbury School in Salisbury, MD (Pre-K to 12th, independent). Given Frankford's location in Sussex County, DE, many families also consider schools in the greater Delmarva area. Transportation is a key consideration, as most will require a commute of 20-40 minutes.
Are there any state-specific financial aid or tuition assistance programs for Delaware residents attending private schools in the Frankford area?
Yes, Delaware offers the "Student Excellence Equals Degree (SEED)" scholarship for students attending Delaware Technical Community College, but more relevant for K-12 is the lack of a statewide voucher or tax-credit scholarship program. However, individual private schools like St. Ann School offer need-based financial aid and parish subsidies. For Delaware residents considering schools in Maryland (like Worcester Prep or Salisbury School), it's important to note that these institutions have their own financial aid policies but are not part of Delaware state assistance programs. Parents should inquire directly with each school about endowed scholarships and flexible payment plans.
How do the academic and extracurricular programs at private schools near Frankford, DE, leverage the unique coastal environment of Sussex County?
Schools in the region often incorporate the local environment into their curricula. Worcester Preparatory School and Salisbury School, for instance, may feature marine biology, environmental science, and ecology programs that utilize the nearby Atlantic coast, Delaware Bay, and state parks for fieldwork and study. St. Ann School’s community service projects often engage with local coastal communities. Athletics frequently include sailing, swimming, and golf, taking advantage of the area's resorts and waterways. This connection to the environment is a distinctive feature of education in the Frankford vicinity.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Frankford, Delaware, families, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for sought-after schools like Worcester Preparatory School and Salisbury School often begins a full year in advance, with applications due in January or February for the following fall. St. Ann School may have a more rolling admission but encourages early application. Given the seasonal population in coastal Sussex County, some schools have specific considerations for year-round versus summer residents. It is common for these schools to have waitlists, especially for entry grades like Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 9th grade. Open houses typically occur in the fall, and we recommend starting inquiries the summer before your desired enrollment year.
For a family moving to Frankford, what are the main considerations when comparing the local public school district (Indian River) to the nearby private school options?
The key considerations are class size, curriculum focus, and commute. The Indian River School District serves Frankford with larger, more diverse public schools. Private options offer significantly smaller class sizes (often 15:1 or lower) and specialized college-prep or faith-based curricula. The trade-off is tuition (ranging from ~$5,000 to over $25,000 annually) and a substantial daily commute to Berlin or Salisbury. For high school, parents may value the extensive AP/advanced course offerings and college counseling at schools like Worcester Prep versus the offerings at Indian River High School. The decision often hinges on a family's priority for individualized attention and specific educational philosophy versus the convenience and no-cost option of public schooling.
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