The Best Private Schools in Surry, Maine
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Surry. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Maine School of Science and Mathematics
Public Magnet School (Private School Alternative)
While technically a public magnet school, MSSM functions as a premier private school alternative serving gifted students from across Maine, including the Surry area. The school offers an exceptional STEM-focused education with residential options for students seeking advanced academic opportunities. The curriculum includes advanced mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science, and research programs. Students benefit from state-of-the-art laboratories, research partnerships with universities, and outstanding college placement. The school consistently ranks among the top secondary STEM programs nationally and serves as an excellent option for academically advanced students from rural areas.
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Ellsworth Christian Academy
Christian Schools International
Ellsworth Christian Academy provides a Christ-centered education serving families throughout Hancock County, including Surry. The school combines rigorous academics with biblical integration across all subjects. Features include small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a strong emphasis on character development. The curriculum includes advanced STEM courses, comprehensive language arts, and college preparatory tracks. Facilities include modern classrooms, science laboratory, computer lab, and gymnasium. The school maintains high parent satisfaction through its nurturing environment and academic excellence.
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George Stevens Academy
Independent School
George Stevens Academy is a highly-regarded independent day school serving the Blue Hill Peninsula region, including Surry. The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum with small class sizes and individualized attention. Notable programs include robust visual and performing arts, marine science studies leveraging the coastal location, and competitive athletics. The campus features modern academic facilities, science labs, art studios, and athletic fields. Parents consistently praise the school's supportive community and strong college placement record.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Surry, Maine
What are the private school options for families living in Surry, Maine, and are there any schools located directly in the town?
Surry, Maine, is a small coastal town, and there are no private schools physically located within its town limits. Therefore, families typically look at private schools in the broader Hancock County region. The most prominent options include George Stevens Academy in Blue Hill (a private, independent high school), Ellsworth Christian Academy in Ellsworth (a K-12 Christian school), and the highly selective, public magnet Maine School of Science and Mathematics in Limestone (which is state-funded but requires a competitive application process). For younger grades, parents often consider schools in Ellsworth, Blue Hill, or even Bangor, which involve a commute.
How does the tuition for private schools near Surry, ME, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for day schools in the Surry area varies. For example, George Stevens Academy's tuition is approximately $16,000-$18,000 per year, which is competitive for a Maine independent school. Ellsworth Christian Academy's tuition is generally lower, often in the $6,000-$8,000 range. Maine has a unique financial aid landscape; many schools offer need-based aid, and the state's "Town Tuitioning" program does not apply to Surry as it has its own public schools. However, Maine offers a limited tax deduction for some educational expenses. It's crucial to contact each school's admissions office directly, as they often have dedicated funds and flexible payment plans to assist families from the region.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible from Surry that leverage the local environment?
Schools in the Surry area capitalize on Maine's coastal and rural setting. George Stevens Academy, for instance, has strong marine science and sailing programs, direct access to the Blue Hill Bay for environmental studies, and renowned visual and performing arts offerings. Ellsworth Christian Academy integrates outdoor education and stewardship into its curriculum. While not a traditional private school, the Maine School of Science and Mathematics provides an unparalleled STEM focus with research opportunities. The proximity to Acadia National Park and the Gulf of Maine also allows many schools to incorporate unique field-based learning in ecology, geology, and sustainability.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like George Stevens Academy for a family residing in Surry?
The enrollment process for schools like George Stevens Academy (GSA) begins early in the prior academic year. For fall admission, applications are often due between January and February, with decisions released in March. The process typically includes submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, a personal essay, and a campus visit/interview. As a boarding and day school, GSA gives equal consideration to local day students. For Ellsworth Christian Academy, timelines may be more flexible, with rolling admissions based on space availability. Given Surry's location, planning for transportation is a critical part of the enrollment decision, and connecting with other local families currently attending can provide valuable insights.
For a family in Surry, what are the key considerations when deciding between the local public school (Surry Elementary) and a regional private school?
The decision hinges on several factors specific to Surry. Surry Elementary is a well-regarded K-8 public school with small class sizes, after which students attend Ellsworth High School. Choosing a private school often involves seeking a specific educational philosophy (e.g., independent college-prep at GSA or faith-based at Ellsworth Christian), specialized programs (advanced STEM, arts, or marine science), or a continuous K-12 pathway. The trade-off includes tuition costs, daily commuting time to Blue Hill, Ellsworth, or beyond, and potentially a different social community. Many Surry families value the strong local public school but opt for private options for high school to access different academic resources, smaller class sizes in upper grades, or boarding opportunities for a broader perspective.
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