The Best Private Schools in Cambridge, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cambridge. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Christ Church Day School
Christ Church Episcopal
Christ Church Day School is a highly-regarded Episcopal private school serving students from pre-kindergarten through 5th grade. The school emphasizes a balanced approach to education with strong academic foundations in literacy, mathematics, and science, complemented by dedicated arts and music programs. Their small class sizes ensure personalized attention, and the curriculum integrates Christian values with rigorous academics. The school features modern classrooms, dedicated play areas, and a supportive community environment that has earned excellent parent satisfaction ratings.
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The Country School
Independent
Located in nearby Easton, The Country School serves families throughout the Eastern Shore region including Cambridge. This independent school offers a comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade education with exceptional academic results. The school features a 15-acre campus with state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, art studios, and extensive athletic fields. Their innovative curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, environmental education, and character development. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, the school maintains a strong reputation for preparing students for top secondary schools.
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Salisbury School
Independent
Salisbury School is a prestigious independent college preparatory school serving students from across the Eastern Shore, including Cambridge families. The school offers junior kindergarten through 12th grade education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development. Their comprehensive program includes extensive Advanced Placement offerings, competitive athletics, vibrant arts programs, and leadership opportunities. The 35-acre campus features modern academic buildings, science laboratories, performing arts center, and athletic facilities. The school maintains a 100% college acceptance rate and is known for its supportive community and outstanding faculty.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cambridge, Maryland
What are the main private school options available for families living in Cambridge, MD, and what grade levels do they serve?
For families in Cambridge, the most accessible private schools include Christ Church Day School (Pre-K through 5th grade), The Country School in Easton (Pre-K through 8th grade, about a 30-minute drive), and the Salisbury School in Salisbury (Pre-K through 12th grade, about a 45-minute drive). While Cambridge itself has limited on-site options, the surrounding Eastern Shore communities offer several well-regarded institutions. Many Cambridge families commute to these schools, valuing their smaller class sizes and specialized programs. It's important to consider the logistics of transportation when evaluating these options.
How does tuition for private schools on Maryland's Eastern Shore, like those near Cambridge, compare to state averages, and what financial aid is typically available?
Tuition for private schools serving Cambridge, MD, is generally below the state average for Maryland's major metropolitan areas but is a significant consideration for local families. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $10,000-$15,000 for lower schools and $20,000-$25,000 for upper schools like Salisbury School. Importantly, all the major schools in the area—Christ Church Day School, The Country School, and Salisbury School—offer need-based financial aid and sometimes merit scholarships. Many also have flexible payment plans. Maryland also offers the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) program, which provides K-12 scholarships for eligible families to attend private schools, a valuable resource for Cambridge residents.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Cambridge, MD, offer that leverage the local environment?
Private schools in the Cambridge area uniquely integrate the Chesapeake Bay's cultural and ecological resources into their curricula. For example, The Country School has a renowned environmental science program that includes outdoor education and bay studies. Salisbury School offers robust marine science and aquaculture programs, often with field work on the Shore. Christ Church Day School emphasizes community engagement within Dorchester County. These schools often feature sailing teams, environmental clubs, and partnerships with local institutions like the Horn Point Laboratory, providing hands-on learning distinct to the Eastern Shore that you wouldn't typically find in a standard public school curriculum.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like The Country School or Salisbury School for a family from Cambridge?
The enrollment process for the leading private schools serving Cambridge families begins early. Prospective families should initiate inquiries in the fall, one year prior to desired entry (e.g., Fall 2024 for the 2025-2026 school year). Key steps include: attending open houses (often held October-January), submitting applications by January or February deadlines, completing student assessments and/or classroom visits, and providing teacher recommendations. Financial aid applications usually run concurrently. Admissions decisions are typically released in March. Given the competitive nature and limited spaces, especially in entry grades, starting the process early is crucial. Schools understand applicants are from a wide geographic area, including Cambridge, and can often help coordinate visit logistics.
For a Cambridge resident, what are the key considerations when deciding between the local public schools (like Cambridge-South Dorchester High) and a private school on the Eastern Shore?
The decision hinges on several Cambridge-specific factors. Cambridge-South Dorchester High School offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, a rare and rigorous public school option. Choosing a private school like Salisbury School often involves seeking a more traditional college-preparatory environment with smaller classes, different athletic/arts offerings, and a potentially different peer community. The trade-off includes significant tuition costs and daily commuting to Easton or Salisbury, which can impact family logistics and student involvement in local Cambridge activities. Parents should deeply consider their child's learning style, the value they place on a specific educational philosophy, and their willingness to manage the commute versus supporting and engaging with the unique programs within the Cambridge public school system.
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