The Best Private Schools in Hollywood, Florida
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Hollywood. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
American Heritage School - Plantation Campus
American Heritage Schools
American Heritage School's Plantation campus serves students from Hollywood and surrounding areas with an exceptional college preparatory program. The school is nationally recognized for its academic excellence, offering specialized tracks in pre-medicine, pre-law, engineering, and computer science. Facilities include a 35,000 square foot visual and performing arts center, Olympic-sized swimming pool, and advanced science laboratories. The school consistently produces National Merit Scholars and has a robust extracurricular program with over 80 clubs and championship athletic teams.
Programs:
Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory
Marianist Catholic School
Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory is a highly-regarded Catholic college preparatory school serving grades 6-12. Founded by the Marianist tradition, the school offers a rigorous academic curriculum with 21 Advanced Placement courses and a comprehensive STEM program. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including modern science labs, performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. The school is known for its strong community values, competitive athletics program with multiple state championships, and exceptional college placement record with graduates attending top universities nationwide.
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Pine Crest School - Fort Lauderdale Campus
Pine Crest School
Pine Crest School is a prestigious independent day school serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. The Fort Lauderdale campus attracts families from Hollywood with its comprehensive International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement programs. The school features extensive facilities including a 35-acre campus with multiple libraries, science and innovation centers, athletic complexes, and performing arts spaces. Pine Crest is known for its rigorous academic environment, distinguished faculty with advanced degrees, and exceptional college matriculation with graduates regularly accepted to Ivy League and top-tier universities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Hollywood, Florida
What are the primary private school options available for families living in Hollywood, FL, and are there notable schools within a commutable distance?
While Hollywood itself has several well-regarded private and parochial schools, many families in the area also consider prestigious institutions in neighboring cities due to South Florida's interconnected nature. Top-tier options within a reasonable commute include Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory (Hollywood), American Heritage School - Plantation Campus (Plantation), and Pine Crest School - Fort Lauderdale Campus (Fort Lauderdale). Hollywood is also home to a variety of Catholic schools like St. Bernadette Catholic School and smaller independent academies. The concentration of college-preparatory and specialty schools in Broward County means Hollywood residents have access to a wide range of educational philosophies and program strengths.
How does tuition for private schools in the Hollywood, Florida area compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are commonly available?
Tuition in the Hollywood area aligns with the higher cost of living in South Florida and can be above the state average for premier college-preparatory schools. For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition at top-tier schools like American Heritage or Pine Crest can range from $30,000 to $40,000+ annually for upper grades. More local parochial and independent schools in Hollywood often range from $10,000 to $20,000. Florida offers significant financial aid options, including the state-mandated Step Up For Students scholarship programs (like the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship and Family Empowerment Scholarship), which many area private schools accept. These need-based and income-based scholarships can substantially reduce costs for qualifying families. Additionally, most schools offer their own need-based financial aid.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are emphasized by private schools in the Hollywood, FL region?
Private schools in the Hollywood region often leverage South Florida's diverse economy and culture to offer specialized programs. Common standout offerings include robust STEM and Pre-Med tracks (notably at American Heritage), intensive college counseling with high Ivy League acceptance rates, and renowned visual and performing arts programs that connect to the local "Hollywood" arts scene and Greater Fort Lauderdale's cultural institutions. Many schools, including Chaminade-Madonna, have competitive athletic programs, particularly in football and baseball, with a focus on collegiate recruitment. Marine science and environmental studies are also prominent due to proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Everglades.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Hollywood, Florida area?
The timeline for competitive private schools in Broward County is early and structured. For a fall start, the application process typically opens in August or September, one year prior. Key deadlines for admissions testing (like the ISEE or SSAT), interviews, and application submissions are usually between December and February. Schools like Pine Crest and American Heritage have strict deadlines and may have waitlists by spring. It is crucial to start research and campus visits 12-18 months in advance. Many schools also host open houses in the fall. For families moving to Hollywood mid-year, it's best to contact schools directly about rolling admissions, though space in top programs is often limited.
For a Hollywood resident, what are the key considerations when comparing a high-performing public school (like those in Broward County) to a private school option?
Hollywood parents should consider several local factors. Broward County Public Schools include high-rated options like South Broward High School (magnet programs) and charter schools. Key comparisons include: **Class Size** (private schools often have 15-20 students vs. 25-35+ in public), **Curriculum Flexibility** (private schools can offer specialized tracks and accelerated learning not bound by county pacing guides), **Resources** (private schools may have newer facilities and technology funded by tuition), and **Transportation** (Broward County provides public school busing; private schools may offer limited fee-based routes). The decision often hinges on the desire for a specific religious or values-based education, the need for a more tailored learning environment, and the willingness to invest in tuition versus utilizing a taxpayer-funded system with its own strengths.
Private Education Insights
Choosing the Best Private Middle School in Hollywood, FL: A Parent's Guide
For parents in Hollywood, Florida, navigating the transition from elementary to the pivotal middle school years can feel particularly significant. The search for the right private middle school is about more than just academics; it’s about finding a community that understands the unique developmental needs of young adolescents while providing a stable and enriching environment. Here in Hollywood, families are fortunate to have access to several exceptional private institutions, each offering a distinct approach to these formative years. Understanding the local landscape is key to making an informed decision that aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s values.
The middle school philosophy at many top local schools, such as Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory, American Heritage School’s Plantation Campus, and Pine Crest School’s Fort Lauderdale Campus, often emphasizes a bridge between foundational learning and the rigors of high school. In Hollywood, this means programs are frequently designed with an awareness of our diverse, dynamic community. A strong private middle school curriculum will challenge students intellectually while providing robust support systems. Look for schools that offer dedicated advisory programs, where students have a faculty mentor who guides them not just academically, but socially and emotionally—a crucial element during these years of rapid change.
When considering options, the practicalities of Hollywood life come into play. Traffic along I-95, US-1, and the Sawgrass Expressway is a daily reality, making commute time a genuine factor in school selection and overall family well-being. Furthermore, the extracurricular landscape is vital. The best private middle schools in our area leverage South Florida’s unique resources. This might mean robust marine science programs, competitive athletics that take advantage of year-round outdoor facilities, or arts programs that connect with our local cultural institutions. It’s worth investigating how a school integrates our coastal environment and multicultural setting into its experiential learning.
The admissions process for a private middle school in Hollywood typically begins in the fall of a student’s fifth-grade year. It’s advisable to start visiting campuses early to get a genuine feel for the student culture. Pay attention to how middle schoolers interact with teachers and each other during a tour. Are they engaged and respectful? Do they seem happy and challenged? Don’t hesitate to ask specific questions about homework loads, technology policies, and how the school handles the social dynamics common in middle school. Financial planning is also an essential early step; inquire about tuition, fees, and the availability of need-based financial aid or merit scholarships, as policies vary significantly between institutions.
Ultimately, choosing a private middle school in Hollywood is an investment in your child’s confidence and character during a critical chapter. The right school will provide a structured yet nurturing environment that encourages exploration, fosters resilience, and prepares students not just for the next academic step, but for thoughtful engagement with the wider world. By focusing on the specific educational philosophy, logistical fit, and community feel of each option, you can find a place where your child will thrive academically and personally throughout their middle school journey.
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