The Best Private Schools in Catonsville, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Catonsville. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Jemicy School
Independent
The Jemicy School specializes in educating students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences, serving families throughout the Baltimore region including Catonsville. With a nationally recognized program, Jemicy provides individualized instruction that empowers students to reach their academic potential. The school features specialized reading and writing labs, technology-enhanced classrooms, and a comprehensive arts program. Their multi-sensory approach to learning has earned them numerous accolades, and they maintain an exceptional teacher-student ratio of 4:1. The school prepares students for successful transitions to mainstream educational settings and college.
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McDonogh School
Independent
McDonogh School is a highly prestigious coeducational independent school serving the greater Baltimore area, including Catonsville families. Founded in 1873, this day and boarding school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with exceptional academic outcomes. The 800-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science centers, performing arts spaces, and extensive athletic facilities. McDonogh maintains small class sizes with a 8:1 student-teacher ratio and offers over 20 AP courses. The school emphasizes character education and community service alongside academic excellence, with graduates consistently attending top-tier universities nationwide.
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Glenelg Country School
Independent
Glenelg Country School is a premier independent school serving Howard County and surrounding areas including Catonsville. As an International Baccalaureate World School, it offers both the IB Diploma Programme and a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum. The 90-acre campus features modern academic buildings, athletic facilities, and dedicated arts spaces. The school emphasizes global citizenship and interdisciplinary learning while maintaining small class sizes. Glenelg offers extensive extracurricular opportunities including championship athletic teams, robotics programs, and performing arts productions. The school has a strong track record of college placements at selective institutions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Catonsville, Maryland
What are the top private school options for families in Catonsville, MD, and what are their key educational focuses?
While Catonsville itself has several local parochial and independent schools, the broader Baltimore County area is renowned for prestigious institutions. Notably, McDonogh School in Owings Mills (a short commute) is a top-tier, co-educational K-12 college-preparatory school with a strong emphasis on character education and a comprehensive arts and athletics program. The Jemicy School, with campuses in Owings Mills and Baltimore, is nationally recognized for educating bright students with dyslexia or other language-based learning differences. Glenelg Country School, located in Howard County, offers a rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program from preschool through 12th grade. Catonsville parents often consider these schools for their specialized, high-caliber academics within a reasonable driving distance.
How does tuition for private schools in the Catonsville, MD, area compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition in the Catonsville/Baltimore region varies significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, day school tuition at schools like McDonogh or Glenelg Country can range from approximately $30,000 to $40,000+ for upper grades. Maryland offers the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) Scholarship Program, a state-funded initiative that provides K-12 scholarships for eligible students to attend nonpublic schools, which can be a crucial resource for Catonsville families. Additionally, most major private schools have substantial need-based financial aid programs. It's essential to apply for aid concurrently with admission, as deadlines are strict and funds are limited.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible to Catonsville residents?
Private schools serving the Catonsville community often provide distinctive programs not always available in public schools. For example, Glenelg Country School's full IB continuum promotes global-mindedness and interdisciplinary learning. McDonogh School features a renowned equestrian program and a 800-acre campus with extensive outdoor and agricultural learning opportunities. The Jemicy School offers a highly specialized, multi-sensory curriculum specifically designed for dyslexic learners, which is a critical resource for families in Catonsville and beyond seeking this support. Many schools also have strong partnerships with Baltimore's cultural and scientific institutions for enriched learning.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Catonsville, Maryland, area?
The admission process for top-tier schools like McDonogh, Jemicy, and Glenelg Country is highly structured and begins well in advance. The timeline typically starts in the early fall (September-October) with open houses and inquiry submissions. Application deadlines are often in January for the following academic year. The process usually includes a completed application, teacher recommendations, school records, standardized testing (like the ISEE or SSAT), and a required student visit/interview and/or shadow day. For Catonsville families, planning is key, as spaces, especially in specific entry grades (like Pre-K, Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th), are limited and competitive.
For a family living in Catonsville, what are the primary considerations when choosing between the highly-rated Catonsville public schools and area private schools?
Catonsville is served by well-regarded public schools like Catonsville High School, which is a significant factor. The choice often hinges on specific family needs. Private schools offer smaller class sizes, specialized curricula (like IB or learning difference support), distinct religious or philosophical foundations, and often more extensive resources in arts, athletics, and technology. The trade-off is the substantial financial commitment and, for some schools, a longer commute. Parents should consider their child's learning style, any need for specialized support, desired educational philosophy, and the value of a consistent private school pathway from elementary through high school versus the strong, no-tuition public option.
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