The Best Private Schools in Scarborough, Maine
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Scarborough. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Cheverus High School
Jesuit Schools Network
Cheverus High School is a prestigious Jesuit college preparatory school serving students from Scarborough and throughout Southern Maine. With a 120-year legacy of academic excellence, Cheverus offers a rigorous curriculum including International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement courses. The school features state-of-the-art facilities, competitive athletic programs, and extensive extracurricular opportunities. Known for its strong community values and personalized attention, Cheverus maintains a 100% college acceptance rate with graduates attending top universities nationwide. The campus includes modern science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic facilities that serve the greater Portland area.
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Waynflete School
Independent School
Waynflete School is a highly respected independent school serving Pre-K through 12th grade students from Scarborough and the Greater Portland area. Founded in 1898, Waynflete combines academic rigor with progressive educational philosophy, emphasizing critical thinking, creativity, and community engagement. The school features exceptional arts programs, innovative STEM facilities, and extensive outdoor education opportunities. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Waynflete consistently produces graduates who attend selective colleges and universities. The campus includes modern academic buildings, art studios, science labs, and athletic facilities serving students throughout Cumberland County.
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Maine Coast Waldorf School
Waldorf Education
Maine Coast Waldorf School offers a comprehensive Waldorf education serving students from Scarborough and surrounding communities in Southern Maine. Established in 1984, the school provides education from early childhood through high school with a curriculum that integrates academics, arts, and practical skills. The 75-acre campus features outdoor classrooms, gardens, and natural play spaces that complement the school's environmental focus. With small class sizes and experienced Waldorf-trained teachers, the school emphasizes holistic development and critical thinking. The high school program includes college preparatory coursework, internships, and international exchange opportunities, preparing students for higher education and meaningful careers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Scarborough, Maine
Are there any private schools physically located within Scarborough, Maine, or will we need to commute to neighboring towns?
There are no major private K-12 day schools physically located within the town boundaries of Scarborough itself. Families in Scarborough typically commute to highly-regarded private schools in the greater Portland area. Popular choices include Cheverus High School (a Jesuit college-prep school in Portland), Waynflete School (a progressive PreK-12 school in Portland), and Maine Coast Waldorf School (in Freeport, about a 30-minute drive). Scarborough's proximity to Portland (a 15-20 minute drive) provides excellent access, but planning for transportation is a key local consideration.
How does the tuition for top private schools near Scarborough, ME, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition at the leading schools accessible to Scarborough residents is above the Maine state average for private schools. For the 2024-2025 academic year, high school tuition at schools like Waynflete and Cheverus can range from approximately $30,000 to $40,000. However, these institutions are committed to socioeconomic diversity and offer substantial need-based financial aid. Maine Coast Waldorf School also offers adjusted tuition models. It is crucial to apply for financial aid early, as these schools use platforms like Clarity or FACTS, and some have early deadlines concurrent with admissions applications.
What unique or specialized academic programs do the private schools near Scarborough offer that differ from the strong Scarborough Public Schools system?
The private schools near Scarborough offer distinct educational philosophies and programs not found in the public system. Waynflete emphasizes experiential, student-centered learning with a strong arts integration. Cheverus offers a structured Jesuit education focused on service and leadership, with a distinctive theology curriculum. Maine Coast Waldorf School follows the Waldorf pedagogy, which is arts-infused, developmentally paced, and limits early childhood screen use. For families seeking alternatives to the standard public school model—whether faith-based, progressive, or holistic—these nearby schools provide specialized choices that complement Scarborough's own excellent public offerings.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and key deadlines for applying to private high schools like Cheverus or Waynflete from Scarborough?
The admission process for competitive Portland-area private schools is structured and often begins over a year in advance. For fall entry, the key timeline is: September-December (attend open houses and tours), January (application deadline, often including financial aid forms), January-February (student interviews and entrance testing/assessments), and mid-March (admission and financial aid decision notifications). A reply deadline is typically in early April. Scarborough families should note that sibling and legacy applicant deadlines may be even earlier. Starting the process in the fall of your child's 7th or 8th-grade year is highly recommended.
For a Scarborough family, what are the practical considerations regarding transportation and daily logistics for commuting to a private school in Portland or Freeport?
Commuting is a significant daily factor. Scarborough to Portland is a straightforward 15-25 minute drive via I-295 or Route 1, but morning and afternoon rush hour traffic on these corridors can add time. Many schools offer bus service or partner with regional transportation companies that may have routes extending into Scarborough; this must be inquired about specifically. Carpooling with other Scarborough families is common. The drive to Maine Coast Waldorf School in Freeport is longer (25-35 minutes) and involves I-295 North, which can be susceptible to winter weather delays. Evaluating the family's schedule and the school's before/after-care options is essential.
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