The Best Private Schools in Coltons Point, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Coltons Point. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Beddow School
Private Independent School
The Beddow School is a highly respected private institution serving students from preschool through 8th grade. Known for its exceptional academic standards and nurturing environment, the school combines Montessori principles with traditional educational excellence. The curriculum emphasizes individualized learning, critical thinking, and character development. Facilities include modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and outdoor learning spaces. Serving families throughout Southern Maryland, the school offers transportation options and has a strong reputation for preparing students for competitive high schools.
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The Jefferson School
Private Specialized Education
The Jefferson School provides exceptional private education for students seeking personalized academic experiences. Serving students in grades 6-12, the school specializes in creating customized learning plans that address individual strengths and needs. With an average class size of 6 students and a 4:1 student-teacher ratio, the school offers intensive academic support and enrichment. The comprehensive program includes college preparatory courses, technology integration, and extensive extracurricular opportunities. The school serves families throughout Charles County and Southern Maryland regions, including Coltons Point area residents.
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St. Mary's Ryken High School
Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools
St. Mary's Ryken is a premier Catholic, co-educational college preparatory high school serving Southern Maryland. The school offers a rigorous academic curriculum with 21 Advanced Placement courses, extensive STEM programs, and comprehensive fine arts offerings. With a 12:1 student-teacher ratio and 85% of faculty holding advanced degrees, the school provides personalized attention. The 65-acre campus features state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. The school serves students from throughout St. Mary's County and surrounding areas, including Coltons Point.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Coltons Point, Maryland
What are the private school options for families living in Coltons Point, Maryland, and are there schools within the town itself?
Coltons Point is a very small, rural community in St. Mary's County. There are no private schools physically located within the town limits of Coltons Point. Families typically look to nearby towns for options. The most prominent local private schools include St. Mary's Ryken High School (a Catholic, co-ed college-prep high school in Leonardtown), The Beddow School (a private, non-sectarian school in Waldorf offering grades K-8), and The Jefferson School (a private school in nearby Newburg focusing on students with learning differences). Most options will require a commute, making transportation a key consideration for Coltons Point residents.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Coltons Point, MD, area compare, and are there state-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition in the Southern Maryland region varies significantly by school type and grade level. For example, St. Mary's Ryken High School's tuition is approximately $18,000-$20,000 per year, while elementary/middle schools like The Beddow School may range from $10,000-$15,000. Maryland offers the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) Scholarship Program, which provides state-funded vouchers for eligible K-12 students to attend private schools. This can be a crucial financial resource for qualifying families in Coltons Point. Additionally, many schools offer their own need-based financial aid and parish subsidies for Catholic schools.
What unique academic or specialized programs do private schools near Coltons Point, MD, offer that leverage the local environment?
Private schools in the broader St. Mary's County area often integrate the region's rich maritime, historical, and scientific resources into their curricula. St. Mary's Ryken High School, for instance, has a notable Marine Science program that can utilize the proximity to the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay. Furthermore, given the county's proximity to Naval Air Station Patuxent River and defense contractors, several schools emphasize robust STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) pathways to align with local career opportunities. The Jefferson School specializes in tailored programs for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences, filling a specific need in the region.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Coltons Point, Maryland, families?
The enrollment process for private schools in this region often begins nearly a year in advance. For the fall semester, application deadlines for schools like St. Mary's Ryken or The Beddow School are typically in January or February, with admissions decisions communicated by March. Key steps include submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a student interview or assessment. For Coltons Point families, it's vital to plan early due to limited seats and to factor in travel time for visits and assessments. Many schools also host open houses in the fall, which are highly recommended for families considering the commute.
How do the private school options near Coltons Point compare to the local public schools in St. Mary's County?
St. Mary's County Public Schools are generally well-regarded, but private options offer distinct alternatives. The primary differences include smaller class sizes, religious education (in the case of St. Mary's Ryken), and specialized pedagogical approaches (like The Beddow School's traditional academic focus or The Jefferson School's therapeutic model). For Coltons Point students, the assigned public schools may involve bus rides of significant length due to the rural nature of the county. A private school, while also requiring a commute, may offer a more specific educational philosophy or community feel that parents seek. The decision often hinges on a family's priorities for curriculum, values, individual student needs, and willingness to manage transportation.