The Best Private Schools in Howard, Georgia
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Howard. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Mount de Sales Academy
Mount de Sales Academy
Mount de Sales Academy is a prestigious Catholic college preparatory school serving Middle Georgia, including Howard. With a rich history spanning nearly 150 years, the school offers rigorous academics with 20+ AP courses, comprehensive athletics programs, and extensive fine arts opportunities. The 21-acre campus features modern facilities including science labs, performing arts center, and athletic complexes. Known for its strong community values and excellent college placement record.
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Central Fellowship Christian Academy
Central Fellowship Christian Academy
Central Fellowship Christian Academy provides comprehensive Christian education serving the Howard area with a strong academic foundation integrated with biblical principles. The school offers a challenging college preparatory curriculum, competitive athletic programs, and diverse extracurricular activities. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, gymnasium, and athletic fields. The school emphasizes character development and has a strong track record of college acceptance.
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The Westfield Schools
The Westfield Schools
Located in nearby Perry, The Westfield Schools serves students from Howard and surrounding communities with a comprehensive college preparatory program. The school offers a balanced education with strong academics, competitive athletics, and extensive arts programs. The 52-acre campus features modern academic buildings, science labs, performing arts center, and athletic facilities. Known for small class sizes and individualized attention, Westfield maintains high academic standards and strong college placement rates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Howard, Georgia
What are the primary private school options available for families in Howard, Georgia, and what are their educational approaches?
Howard, Georgia, is served by several notable private institutions, primarily located in the nearby Warner Robins and Perry areas. The top schools include Mount de Sales Academy (Macon), a Catholic, college-preparatory school serving grades 6-12; Central Fellowship Christian Academy (Macon), a non-denominational Christian school offering K-12 education with a biblical worldview; and The Westfield Schools (Perry), a college-preparatory school for grades K-12 with a strong emphasis on academics, arts, and athletics. While not directly within Howard's city limits, these are the primary private options for families in the Howard community, each offering distinct religious affiliations and educational philosophies.
How does tuition for private schools in the Howard, GA, area compare, and are there any state-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition in the Howard area varies by school and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $8,000 to $15,000 annually. Specifically, schools like Central Fellowship Christian Academy often have a lower tuition range, while Mount de Sales Academy and The Westfield Schools may be at the higher end due to extensive facilities and programs. Georgia offers the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program, a popular tax-credit scholarship that provides need-based financial aid to students attending participating private schools. All three mentioned schools typically participate in GOAL, which can significantly reduce net tuition costs for eligible families. Additionally, most schools offer their own need-based financial aid and sibling discounts.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Howard, GA, offer that leverage the local community or environment?
Private schools in the Howard region often develop programs that connect students to Central Georgia's unique assets. The Westfield Schools, for instance, may have strong agricultural and equestrian programs reflecting Houston County's rural character. Mount de Sales Academy leverages its proximity to Macon's cultural institutions for robust fine arts and music partnerships. Given the area's strong ties to Robins Air Force Base, many schools, including Central Fellowship, have a significant population of military-connected students and may offer specific support programs. Furthermore, schools often emphasize science and technology programs that align with local engineering and aerospace industries, providing relevant career exposure.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Howard, Georgia families?
The enrollment process for schools like Mount de Sales, Central Fellowship, and Westfield is competitive, with key timelines starting early in the year. Most schools begin accepting applications for the following academic year in September or October, with priority application deadlines typically between January and March. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, standardized test scores, and a family interview or student assessment day. Due to limited seats, especially in popular entry grades (Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th), families in Howard are advised to begin research and campus visits a full year in advance. Many schools also host open houses in the fall, which are crucial for making informed decisions.
For a family in Howard, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local Houston County public schools and the area's private schools?
The decision hinges on several local factors. Houston County public schools are highly rated, large, and offer diverse programs, which can be appealing. However, private schools near Howard offer smaller class sizes (often 15-20 students vs. 25+ in public), distinct religious education if desired, and a specific college-preparatory focus. For example, Mount de Sales has a 100% college acceptance rate. The daily commute is a major practical consideration; attending these private schools requires a drive to Macon or Perry. Families must weigh the cost of tuition against the value of a tailored educational environment and community. The choice often comes down to prioritizing specific values, learning environment, and academic approach over the no-cost, comprehensive offerings of the public system.
Private Education Insights
Discover Top-Rated K-12 Private Schools Near Howard, GA | A Parent's Guide
As a parent in Howard, Georgia, beginning the search for “k 12 private schools near me” can feel both exciting and overwhelming. You’re not just looking for a school; you’re looking for a community and an educational philosophy that aligns with your family’s values and your child’s unique needs. Here in Howard and the greater Houston County area, families are fortunate to have several distinct K-12 private school options, each offering a continuous educational journey from kindergarten through graduation. This continuity is a significant advantage, providing stability, deep relationships, and a consistent approach to learning during your child’s most formative years.
When considering local K-12 private schools near you, it’s essential to look beyond the basics and understand what each institution uniquely offers. For instance, Mount de Sales Academy in Macon, just a short drive from Howard, provides a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum rooted in the Catholic tradition, emphasizing character and service alongside academic excellence. Closer to home, Central Fellowship Christian Academy in Macon offers a Bible-based education with a strong focus on integrating faith into every subject, appealing to families seeking a deeply religious environment. Meanwhile, The Westfield Schools in Perry represents another excellent nearby option, known for its comprehensive programs in academics, arts, and athletics within a nurturing, family-oriented setting. Each of these schools creates a tight-knit community where students are known by name, not just by number.
The decision involves practical local considerations specific to our area. Think about daily logistics: what is the commute like from Howard to Macon or Perry, especially considering after-school activities? Explore the financial investment, as tuition varies, but remember that many schools offer financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans to make private education accessible. Attend open houses and shadow days; these are invaluable for getting a genuine feel for the school culture. Ask specific questions about class sizes, teacher retention rates, and how the school supports students through the transition from middle to upper school. For Howard families, the benefit of a K-12 model means your child can build lasting friendships and mentorships without the disruption of changing schools.
Ultimately, your search for “k 12 private schools near me” in Howard, GA, is about finding the right fit. It’s about matching your child’s learning style with a school’s teaching methodology and ensuring the school’s values resonate with your own. Take your time to visit Central Fellowship Christian Academy, schedule a tour at The Westfield Schools, and explore the campus of Mount de Sales Academy. Talk to current parents and students to hear firsthand experiences. The investment you make in this research paves the way for an educational partnership that can guide your child from their first day of kindergarten to their proud walk across the stage at high school graduation, fully prepared for their next steps in life.