Private Schools in Mount Desert, Maine

College of the Atlantic is a highly regarded private institution located just minutes from Mount Desert in Bar Harbor. While primarily a college, it offers exceptional educational programs and serves the Mount Desert Island community. The school is renowned for its innovative human ecology curriculum that integrates ecological, social, and economic perspectives. With small class sizes and a student-centered approach, COA provides an intimate learning environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities including research laboratories, art studios, and the stunning natural laboratory of Acadia National Park. The institution consistently ranks among the top environmental colleges in the nation.

Mount Desert Island High School serves as the primary public high school for Mount Desert and surrounding communities on MDI. While technically a public school, it offers many features of elite private institutions including rigorous academic programs, extensive extracurricular activities, and comprehensive college preparation. The school features modern facilities including science laboratories, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. MDIHS maintains strong academic performance with high graduation rates and college acceptance percentages. The school's location provides unique educational opportunities through partnerships with nearby research institutions and access to Acadia National Park for environmental studies.

Located approximately 30 minutes from Mount Desert in Sullivan, Sumner Memorial High School serves as a regional educational hub for eastern Hancock County. The school offers a comprehensive private-school-like experience with strong academic programs and personalized attention. Notable features include their robust Career and Technical Education program, college-level courses through partnerships with local colleges, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school maintains modern facilities including technology-integrated classrooms, science labs, and athletic facilities. Sumner has built a reputation for preparing students well for both college and career paths, with particular strengths in hands-on learning and community engagement.