The Best Private Schools in Mount Desert, Maine
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Mount Desert. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
College of the Atlantic
College of the Atlantic
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.
Programs:
Mount Desert Island High School
Mount Desert Island Regional School System
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.
Programs:
Sumner Memorial High School
Regional School Unit 24
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.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Mount Desert, Maine
What are the primary private school options available for families in or near Mount Desert, Maine?
The private school landscape in the Mount Desert area is unique, with a strong focus on specialized, often secondary and post-secondary, education. The most prominent institution is the College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor, which is a private, four-year college specializing in human ecology. For K-12 private day schools, families typically look to schools on Mount Desert Island or in the broader Hancock County region, as dedicated private elementary/middle schools within the town of Mount Desert itself are limited. Mount Desert Island High School and Sumner Memorial High School, as listed, are public high schools, not private. Therefore, parents seeking private K-12 education often explore options in nearby towns or consider boarding schools elsewhere in Maine, making location and commute important factors in the decision.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Mount Desert, ME area compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typical?
Tuition for private schools serving the Mount Desert area can vary widely but often aligns with or exceeds the Maine independent school average due to the specialized nature of many programs and the region's higher cost of living. For example, private high school tuition can range from approximately $15,000 to over $30,000 per year for day students. Most established private schools in Maine offer robust financial aid programs based on demonstrated need. It's crucial for parents to inquire directly with each school's admissions office about their specific aid packages, which may include grants, scholarships, and payment plans. Additionally, Maine residents should investigate the Maine State Tax Credit for Educational Opportunity, which can provide a credit for tuition paid to private schools.
What unique academic programs or specializations are offered by private educational institutions in the Mount Desert region?
Private education in the Mount Desert area is deeply influenced by its extraordinary natural environment. The College of the Atlantic is globally recognized for its singular focus on human ecology, integrating science, art, and policy. While not a K-12 school, its presence shapes the educational community. Local private and independent schools often leverage the Acadia National Park ecosystem for immersive, place-based learning in marine biology, environmental science, and sustainability. Programs may include outdoor expeditions, scientific field research partnerships, and a strong emphasis on the arts and humanities inspired by the region's rich cultural history. This creates an educational environment where academic rigor is combined with hands-on, experiential learning unique to coastal Maine.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Mount Desert, Maine families?
The enrollment process for private schools in this region generally follows a traditional independent school calendar, but planning ahead is essential due to limited local seats. Key steps include: 1) **Research and Tours (Fall - Winter)**: Contact schools 12-18 months before desired entry, especially for competitive grades. Many host open houses in the fall. 2) **Application Deadline (January/February)**: Most schools have application deadlines in early winter for the following academic year. 3) **Standardized Testing & Interviews (Winter)**: Required testing (like the SSAT) and family interviews are typically scheduled during this period. 4) **Admissions Decisions (March)**: Notifications are often released in mid-March. 5) **Reply Date (April)**: A common reply date for enrollment contracts and deposits is in early April. Given the rural nature of Mount Desert, early inquiry about transportation options is also a critical part of the process.
How do families in Mount Desert typically navigate the choice between the well-regarded public schools and seeking private education?
This is a central consideration for Mount Desert families. The public schools, such as Mount Desert Island High School, are consistently high-performing and offer strong academic, arts, and athletic programs, supported by a stable community. The choice for private education often hinges on specific needs or philosophical alignment. Families may consider private options for a different educational approach (e.g., Montessori, Waldorf, or more progressive models), smaller class sizes than what might be available in the regional public system, or a specialized curriculum focus (like intensive arts or environmental science). The decision also involves practical factors: the significant tuition investment versus no-cost public education, and the potential for a longer daily commute to a private school outside the immediate area. Many families value the deep community integration of the public schools, while others seek the distinct mission of a private institution.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities