The Best Private Schools in Lee, Maine
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Lee. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Orono Montessori School
American Montessori Society
Located just 20 minutes from Lee, Orono Montessori School serves families throughout Penobscot County with authentic Montessori education for children ages 3-12. The school features beautifully prepared classrooms, extensive outdoor learning environments, and highly trained Montessori-certified teachers. The program emphasizes individualized learning, hands-on exploration, and development of independence. Students benefit from small class sizes, mixed-age groupings, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced mathematics, language arts, cultural studies, and practical life skills. The school is highly regarded for its peaceful learning environment and exceptional student outcomes.
Programs:
All Saints Catholic School
Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland
All Saints Catholic School serves students from Lee and surrounding communities in the Greater Bangor area. As a Pre-K through 8th grade institution, it offers a comprehensive Catholic education with strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development. The school features modern facilities, small class sizes, and dedicated faculty. Programs include advanced STEM curriculum, fine arts, music, and competitive athletics. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, strong community values, and rigorous academic preparation for high school.
Programs:
Bangor Christian Schools
Independent Christian School
Bangor Christian Schools serves the Lee area with a comprehensive Pre-K through 12th grade program. This long-established Christian school offers rigorous college preparatory curriculum integrated with biblical principles. The campus features modern classrooms, science labs, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. Academic programs include Advanced Placement courses, competitive sports teams, music programs, and extensive extracurricular activities. The school is known for its strong academic outcomes, with graduates regularly accepted to top colleges and universities throughout New England.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Lee, Maine
What are the realistic private school commuting options for families living in Lee, Maine, given the listed top schools are not in Lee itself?
As Lee is a small town, there are no private schools within its immediate borders. The primary options involve commuting to nearby communities. All Saints Catholic School is in Bangor (~30-minute drive), Bangor Christian Schools is also in Bangor, and Orono Montessori School is in Orono (~25-minute drive). Many families in Lee form carpools. It's important to consider the daily commute, especially during Maine winters, and factor transportation into your overall planning. Some schools may offer limited bus service from central locations, so inquire directly with each institution.
How does the tuition at private schools near Lee, ME, compare to the state average, and are there any Maine-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition for the schools serving Lee families varies. For the 2023-2024 year, Bangor Christian Schools' tuition ranges from approximately $6,500 to $8,500, while All Saints Catholic School is typically around $5,000-$6,000 for parishioners. Orono Montessori, as a specialized program, may be higher. These are generally at or below the state average for private K-12 education in Maine. For financial aid, beyond school-specific scholarships, Maine offers the "Opportunity Maine Tax Credit" for certain educational donations, and some families utilize the state's "Section 529" plan for K-12 expenses. The "Maine Children's Scholarship Fund" also provides need-based assistance for private school tuition statewide.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools accessible from Lee, ME, offer that address the interests of a rural Maine student?
Schools in the region often integrate Maine's environment and culture. Bangor Christian Schools and All Saints Catholic School may have strong science programs with local field studies. Orono Montessori School emphasizes hands-on, nature-based learning aligned with Maine's outdoor lifestyle. Extracurricularly, these schools often have robust music and arts programs, which can be a draw for families in areas with limited public school offerings. Additionally, many have community service requirements that connect students to local needs in Penobscot County, fostering a strong sense of regional citizenship.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like All Saints Catholic or Bangor Christian for a family moving to Lee?
Enrollment timelines for schools serving the Lee area are crucial due to limited seats. The main application period typically opens in January for the following fall, with deadlines in February or March. However, as these schools accept students from a wide region, it's advisable to initiate contact in the fall prior to your desired enrollment year. The process usually includes an application, student records review, family interview, and possibly an assessment. For families moving to Lee mid-year, contacting the schools directly about rolling admissions is essential, as spots may open due to relocation, particularly in a university-influenced area like Greater Bangor/Orono.
For a Lee resident, what are the key considerations when comparing the local Lee Elementary School (public) to commuting to a private school in Bangor or Orono?
The key considerations are educational approach, community, and logistics. Lee Elementary (MSAD #30) offers a small, close-knit community with no commute. The private options offer specific religious education (All Saints, Bangor Christian) or a Montessori pedagogy (Orono Montessori), which may not be available publicly. Academically, private schools may have smaller class sizes than the regional public middle/high schools (Lee students later attend Mattanawcook Academy in Lincoln). The commute to Bangor/Orono (25-45 mins) means significant time and cost, but provides access to broader extracurriculars and a different peer network. Ultimately, the decision hinges on how much you value a specialized curriculum versus the convenience and local integration of the public system.