The Best Private Schools in Standish, Maine
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Standish. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Waynflete School
Independent
Waynflete is a highly respected independent school serving students from Pre-K through 12th grade, drawing many families from the Standish area. Known for its rigorous academic program and progressive educational approach, the school emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and community engagement. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. Waynflete consistently produces graduates who attend top colleges and universities, with a strong focus on developing well-rounded individuals through extensive arts, athletics, and community service programs.
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Cheverus High School
Jesuit Network
Cheverus High School is a Jesuit, Catholic college preparatory school serving students in grades 9-12 from Standish and surrounding communities. The school offers a comprehensive academic program grounded in the Jesuit tradition of educating the whole person - mind, body, and spirit. Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a wide range of extracurricular activities including competitive athletics, performing arts, and community service programs. The school boasts modern facilities, advanced technology integration, and a strong track record of college placements to selective institutions nationwide.
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Maine Girls' Academy (formerly Catherine McAuley High School)
Private Catholic
Maine Girls' Academy provides a distinctive all-girls educational experience for students from Standish and the Greater Portland area. The school focuses on empowering young women through rigorous academics, leadership development, and personalized attention. The curriculum emphasizes STEM education, humanities, and arts while fostering confidence and critical thinking skills. The campus features modern classrooms, science laboratories, and athletic facilities. The school maintains strong college counseling programs and has a history of successful graduate placements at competitive colleges and universities, with particular strength in preparing women for leadership roles in various fields.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Standish, Maine
What are the primary private school options for Standish, ME residents, and are there any located directly in town?
While Standish itself does not host major private secondary schools, families commonly consider several prestigious institutions within a reasonable commuting distance. The top options include Waynflete School (Pre-K-12) in Portland, Cheverus High School (9-12, Jesuit) in Portland, and Maine Girls' Academy (9-12, all-girls) in Portland. For younger grades, some Standish families also look at local private elementary programs or nearby towns. It's important to note that these schools are day schools, not boarding schools, so transportation from Standish is a key logistical consideration for parents.
How does the tuition for Portland-area private schools compare to the Maine average, and what financial aid options are available for Standish families?
Tuition for the leading private schools near Standish, such as Waynflete and Cheverus, is typically above the Maine private school average, often ranging from approximately $25,000 to $40,000+ per year for high school. However, these schools offer substantial need-based financial aid. For example, many have endowments dedicated to making education accessible, and a significant percentage of the student body receives aid. Standish families should complete the School and Student Services (SSS) financial aid application and apply early. Additionally, the State of Maine offers a limited tuition reimbursement program for towns without public high schools, but Standish has Bonny Eagle High School, so this generally does not apply.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools accessible from Standish offer that differ from Bonny Eagle High School?
The private schools in the Greater Portland area offer specialized programs that can be a draw for Standish students. Waynflete is known for its progressive, student-centered curriculum with strong arts and global studies. Cheverus offers a classical Jesuit education with a required theology curriculum and renowned STEM programs. Maine Girls' Academy provides a single-sex environment with a focus on leadership and empowerment. These schools often have smaller average class sizes than Bonny Eagle, more extensive international travel opportunities, and different athletic league affiliations (like the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council for some). They may also offer more niche Advanced Placement or independent study options.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for Standish students applying to private high schools like Cheverus or Waynflete?
The process is highly structured and begins over a year in advance. For 9th grade entry, families should start researching in the fall of 7th grade. Key steps include: attending open houses (often in the fall), registering for entrance exams (SSAT or HSPT) by winter, submitting applications (usually due in January or February of 8th grade), and completing interviews and campus visits. Financial aid applications are due concurrently. Admissions decisions are typically released in March. It is crucial for Standish applicants to highlight not just academic readiness but also how they would contribute to the school community, as these schools value fit highly. Waiting lists are common.
For a family living in Standish, what are the major practical considerations when choosing between Bonny Eagle Public Schools and a private school in Portland?
The decision involves several location-specific factors. First is the daily commute, which can be 30-45 minutes each way to Portland, impacting family schedules and student involvement in after-school activities. Second is cost versus value: paying significant tuition versus a tax-funded education. Third is educational philosophy: Bonny Eagle offers a comprehensive public school experience with diverse peers from the local community, while private options offer specific religious or pedagogical approaches. Fourth is social dynamics: attending school in Portland means your child's peer group will be geographically dispersed, which can affect local friendships and transportation for social events. Finally, consider college counseling resources, which are often more intensive at the private schools, potentially benefiting the college application process.