The Best Private Schools in Arnold, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Arnold. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Mary's Elementary School
Archdiocese of Baltimore
St. Mary's Elementary School serves families in Arnold and the greater Annapolis area with a comprehensive Catholic education program. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum enhanced by faith formation, serving students from pre-K through 8th grade. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, a library, and athletic facilities. The school emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, with strong parent involvement and community spirit. Extracurricular activities include sports, choir, and various clubs that complement the strong academic foundation.
Programs:
Severn School
Independent School
Severn School is a highly respected independent day school serving Arnold and surrounding communities with a comprehensive college preparatory program. The school offers a challenging academic environment with small class sizes and dedicated faculty. Facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, science laboratories, performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. The school emphasizes character education, leadership development, and community service. Strong athletic programs and extensive arts opportunities provide a well-rounded education for students in grades 6-12.
Programs:
Key School
Independent School
Key School offers a progressive, student-centered education serving families in Arnold and the Annapolis area. The school provides a challenging academic program that includes the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program for upper school students. Key's campus features modern academic buildings, art studios, science labs, and extensive athletic facilities. The school emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness through its interdisciplinary approach. Strong community values and individualized attention create a supportive learning environment for students from pre-K through 12th grade.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Arnold, Maryland
What are the primary private school options available for families residing in Arnold, MD, and what are their key characteristics?
Arnold, MD, is served by several notable private schools, though it's important to note that many top-tier institutions are located in nearby communities. Directly in Arnold, you'll find St. Mary's Elementary School, a Catholic school offering Pre-K through 8th grade with a values-based education. For secondary education, families often look to neighboring areas. The Severn School, located in nearby Severna Park, is a prestigious co-ed, college-preparatory day school for grades 6-12, known for its strong academics and waterfront campus. The Key School in Annapolis, a short drive from Arnold, offers a progressive, independent education from Pre-K through 12th grade. Additionally, many Arnold families consider other Anne Arundel County and Annapolis-area schools like Indian Creek School and Archbishop Spalding High School.
How does tuition for private schools in the Arnold, MD, area compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition in the Arnold area varies significantly by school and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, St. Mary's Elementary (Arnold) tuition ranges approximately from $10,000 for Pre-K to $13,000 for middle school. The Severn School's upper school tuition is around $40,000, while the Key School's high school tuition exceeds $40,000. Maryland offers some unique financial considerations. The Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) Scholarship Program is a state-funded voucher that provides financial assistance for eligible K-12 students to attend nonpublic schools, which many Arnold private school families utilize. Additionally, most schools offer their own need-based financial aid, and payment plans are common. It's crucial to inquire directly with each school's admissions office about deadlines and application processes for aid.
What specialized academic or extracurricular programs are notable at private schools accessible from Arnold, MD?
Private schools in the Arnold corridor leverage their Chesapeake Bay proximity and academic rigor to offer distinctive programs. The Severn School is renowned for its Center for Leadership and Service and its exceptional sailing and crew teams, utilizing the local waterways. The Key School emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, global studies, and has a strong visual and performing arts program. St. Mary's Elementary provides a structured, faith-based curriculum with Spanish instruction and community service integration. A common thread among these schools is a strong focus on college preparation, with many offering advanced placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, robotics clubs, and robust STEM initiatives that align with Maryland's technology corridor. Their locations also facilitate partnerships with institutions in Annapolis and Washington, D.C., for enrichment.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for private schools serving Arnold, MD, families?
The process is competitive, especially for sought-after schools like Severn and Key, and planning a year in advance is standard. The timeline generally begins in the early fall (September-October) with open houses and tours. Application deadlines are typically between January and February for the following academic year. Key components include a completed application, teacher recommendations, school transcripts, and standardized testing (such as the ISEE or SSAT for middle and upper schools). Many schools also require a family interview and a student visit or assessment day. Admissions decisions are usually released in March. For parish-based schools like St. Mary's, priority is often given to active parishioners and siblings of current students, so connecting with the parish community early is advised.
How do the educational environments of private schools near Arnold, MD, compare to the highly-rated public schools in the Anne Arundel County Public School system?
This is a key consideration for Arnold parents, as the local public schools, like Arnold Elementary and Broadneck High, are consistently high-performing. The choice often comes down to educational philosophy, class size, and specific programs. Private schools offer significantly smaller class sizes (often 12-18 students vs. 25+ in public), allowing for more individualized attention. They provide a distinct mission-driven environment—whether religious at St. Mary's or specific college-prep philosophies at Severn and Key. Private schools often have more flexibility in curriculum and can offer specialized tracks or global perspectives not always available in the public scope. However, Anne Arundel County public schools offer robust Advanced Placement (AP) courses, extensive extracurriculars, and no tuition. The decision frequently hinges on a family's values, budget, and their child's need for a specific learning environment.
Private Education Insights
Find the Best Private Primary Schools in Arnold, MD: Your 2024 Guide
As a parent in Arnold, you’re likely beginning the meaningful journey of finding the right educational foundation for your child. The search for “private primary schools near me” is more than just a query; it’s about discovering a community that aligns with your family’s values and your child’s unique needs. Here in our corner of Anne Arundel County, you have access to several exceptional institutions, each offering a distinct approach to nurturing young minds during these critical formative years.
Arnold’s location provides a wonderful blend of suburban tranquility and educational opportunity. When considering private primary schools near you, it’s essential to think about the daily rhythm of life. The commute from neighborhoods like the Point or Arnold Heights to local schools is often short, allowing for more family time and less time in transit. This local context is a significant advantage, fostering a strong connection between school and community. Many families find that their child’s classmates live just around the corner, making playdates and school event participation seamless and building a tight-knit support network.
Among your local options, you’ll find schools with diverse educational philosophies. For instance, St. Mary’s Elementary School offers a faith-based education rooted in Catholic values, which can be a cornerstone for families seeking an environment that integrates spiritual development with academic rigor. Just a short drive away, institutions like Severn School and Key School present different models. Severn provides a structured, college-preparatory focus from an early age, emphasizing tradition and leadership. In contrast, Key School is known for its progressive, student-centered approach, encouraging inquiry and creative thinking. Visiting each campus is invaluable; you’ll sense the culture immediately—whether it’s the collaborative buzz in a Key classroom or the respectful order in a Severn hallway.
The process of evaluating private primary schools near you should extend beyond academics. Consider the extracurricular landscape that complements the school day. Many Arnold families are drawn to the Chesapeake Bay lifestyle, and some schools integrate environmental science and outdoor education into their curricula, which can be a perfect match for a child who loves to explore. Also, inquire about after-school programs that accommodate working parents’ schedules, a practical concern for many in our community. Financial planning is another key local consideration. While private education is an investment, many schools offer robust financial aid and sibling discounts, making them accessible to a range of families in the Arnold area.
Ultimately, your search for the right private primary school is deeply personal. It’s about finding a place where your child will be known, challenged, and inspired. Take advantage of open houses, shadow days, and conversations with current parents. The vibrant community here in Arnold supports a choice that can set a powerful trajectory for your child’s lifelong love of learning. Trust your instincts as you explore these wonderful local resources; the perfect fit is waiting to welcome your family.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities