The Best Private Schools in Bushwood, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Bushwood. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Beddow School
Independent
The Beddow School is a highly-regarded independent private school serving Southern Maryland, including the Bushwood area. Founded in 1979, it offers a comprehensive college preparatory program with small class sizes and individualized attention. The school features strong STEM programs, advanced placement courses, and extensive arts integration. Facilities include modern science labs, technology centers, and athletic facilities. Parents consistently praise the dedicated faculty and strong community atmosphere that fosters academic excellence and character development.
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Evergreen Elementary and Middle School
Independent
Evergreen Elementary and Middle School serves families throughout St. Mary's County, including Bushwood residents. This Montessori-based private school offers education from early childhood through middle school with a focus on individualized learning and hands-on experiences. The school features specialized classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and extensive enrichment programs including music, art, and foreign language. With high parent satisfaction ratings, the school is known for its nurturing environment and strong academic foundation that prepares students for high school success.
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Archbishop Neale School
Catholic Diocese of Arlington
Archbishop Neale School is a Catholic private school serving Charles County and surrounding areas including Bushwood. Established in 1964, the school provides a comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade education rooted in Catholic values. The curriculum includes advanced academic programs, technology integration, Spanish instruction, and comprehensive arts and athletics. The school features modern classrooms, science labs, a library media center, and extensive playground facilities. Parents consistently rate the school highly for academic rigor, supportive community, and strong moral foundation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Bushwood, Maryland
What are the primary private school options available for families in Bushwood, Maryland, and what grade levels do they serve?
Bushwood, MD, and its immediate surrounding area in St. Mary's County offer a few key private school options. The Beddow School is a well-regarded private institution serving students from Pre-K through 8th grade. Evergreen Elementary and Middle School provides education for elementary and middle school grades. For families seeking a faith-based education, Archbishop Neale School, a Catholic school in nearby La Plata (within a reasonable commute), serves students from Pre-K3 through 8th grade. Given Bushwood's more rural setting, many families also consider private schools in the wider Southern Maryland region, including Leonardtown and Waldorf.
How does tuition for private schools in the Bushwood, Maryland area compare to the state average, and are there financial aid options?
Tuition for private schools in the Bushwood area is generally competitive but can vary. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $6,000 to $12,000 annually for day schools, which is often below the state average for major metropolitan areas like Baltimore or Bethesda. Maryland offers several financial aid avenues. The Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) Scholarship Program is a state-funded initiative that provides vouchers for eligible students to attend private schools, a crucial resource for many Southern Maryland families. Additionally, individual schools like Archbishop Neale offer need-based financial aid and parish subsidy programs for active church members.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools near Bushwood, given its proximity to the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay?
Private schools in the Bushwood area often leverage the unique environmental and historical context of Southern Maryland. Several schools integrate Chesapeake Bay studies and environmental science into their curricula, with potential for field trips to local waterways and parks. Given the region's strong ties to naval aviation (with NAS Patuxent River nearby), some schools may emphasize STEM programs with connections to science and technology. Furthermore, the rich colonial history of St. Mary's County allows schools to offer immersive local history units. Extracurriculars may include sailing clubs, environmental stewardship programs, and partnerships with local historical sites like St. Mary's City.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Bushwood, Maryland, and how far in advance should parents apply?
The enrollment process for Bushwood-area private schools often begins in the fall for the following academic year, with many schools hosting open houses from September to January. Key deadlines for application submissions, along with any required testing or shadow days, typically fall between January and March. For schools like Archbishop Neale, priority is given to Catholic families and siblings of current students. Given the limited number of seats in this region, it is highly advisable for parents to initiate inquiries and campus visits a full year in advance, especially for sought-after grades like Pre-K and Kindergarten. Rolling admissions may be available if spots remain.
For families in Bushwood, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public schools (St. Mary's County Public Schools) and a private school option?
The decision often hinges on several Bushwood-specific factors. St. Mary's County Public Schools operate on a county-wide system, which for Bushwood residents may involve bus rides to schools in other communities. Private schools offer smaller class sizes and often a distinct educational philosophy (e.g., religious, classical, or progressive) in a more centralized location. A major practical consideration is the commute; private options may be in Bushwood itself or require driving to a nearby town. Academically, private schools may offer a more consistent curriculum across grades, while public schools provide a wider array of specialized high school programs (like tech centers). The Maryland BOOST scholarship can significantly narrow the cost gap, making private school a more feasible option for qualifying families.
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