The Best Private Schools in Dhs, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Dhs. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Georgetown Preparatory School
Jesuit College Preparatory School
As the nation's oldest Jesuit boarding and day school, Georgetown Prep serves boys in grades 9-12 and is located approximately 15 miles from Damascus. The school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement offerings, competitive athletic programs, and outstanding facilities on a 93-acre campus. Known for academic excellence and character formation, Georgetown Prep maintains small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a strong tradition of preparing students for leadership roles. The school serves both local day students and boarding students from across the country.
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Bullis School
Independent School
Bullis School is a highly regarded co-educational independent school serving students from grades 3-12. Located just 20 minutes from Damascus, Bullis offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with exceptional STEM programs, state-of-the-art facilities including a 102-acre campus, and competitive athletic programs. The school emphasizes character development and academic excellence with small class sizes and dedicated faculty. Their comprehensive arts program and extensive extracurricular offerings make it one of the top private school choices in Montgomery County.
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Barrie School
Independent School
Barrie School offers a progressive educational approach serving students from 12 months through 12th grade. Located approximately 15 miles from Damascus, the school combines Montessori principles with innovative project-based learning and International Baccalaureate programs for older students. The 45-acre campus features extensive outdoor learning spaces, modern academic facilities, and a strong emphasis on environmental education. Barrie is known for its diverse community, individualized attention, and preparation for college and beyond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Dhs, Maryland
What are the primary private school options available for families in Dhs, Maryland, and what are their educational philosophies?
Dhs, Maryland, is part of the greater Washington D.C. metro area and offers access to several prestigious private schools, though it's important to note that some are located in adjacent communities. Top schools drawing Dhs families include Bullis School in Potomac (MD), known for its strong college preparatory program and STEM focus; Barrie School in Silver Spring (MD), which offers Montessori through Upper School education with a progressive, project-based approach; and Georgetown Preparatory School in North Bethesda (MD), the nation's oldest Jesuit boarding/day school for boys, renowned for its rigorous academics and character formation. Parents in Dhs should also explore other nearby options in Montgomery County and D.C. proper, as the area is rich with independent, parochial, and specialty schools.
How does tuition for private schools in the Dhs, MD, area compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition in the Dhs-area private school market is competitive with the high cost of living in Montgomery County. For the 2024-2025 academic year, day school tuition ranges significantly. Georgetown Prep's tuition is approximately $48,000, Bullis School's is around $53,000 for upper school, and Barrie School's ranges from about $30,000 to $38,000 depending on the division. Most Maryland private schools offer robust need-based financial aid programs. For instance, Bullis awarded over $7 million in aid last year. It's crucial to apply for aid early, as deadlines often precede admission decisions. Maryland also has programs like the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) scholarship, which provides state-funded vouchers for eligible families to use at private schools.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools near Dhs, MD, that leverage the local Washington D.C. resources?
Private schools in the Dhs vicinity excel at leveraging the unparalleled resources of the Washington D.C. capital region. Many have established signature programs: Bullis School features a renowned Global Studies program with travel and diplomacy simulations, and a strong partnership with nearby tech companies for STEM internships. Barrie School emphasizes environmental stewardship with its 45-acre campus and partnerships with local agricultural and conservation organizations. Georgetown Prep offers exceptional opportunities in government, law, and international relations through its Jesuit network, providing access to Capitol Hill internships, Model UN, and lectures from policy experts. These schools frequently use museums, embassies, federal agencies, and cultural institutions for experiential learning.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools serving Dhs, Maryland families?
The admission process for top private schools near Dhs is highly structured and begins well in advance. The timeline typically starts in the summer or early fall before the desired year of entry (e.g., fall 2024 for 2025-26 enrollment). Key steps include: attending open houses (September-November), submitting applications by early January (often with standardized testing like the ISEE or SSAT), completing student interviews and visits (January-February), and receiving decisions in mid-March. Rolling admission may be available for some grades if space permits. Given the competitiveness, especially for entry points like kindergarten, 6th, and 9th grades, Dhs families are advised to start research 18-24 months in advance and apply to multiple schools to increase options.
For families in Dhs, what are the key considerations when comparing the highly-rated Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) to local private school options?
This is a central decision for Dhs families. Key considerations include: **Class Size and Personalization:** MCPS schools are large, while private schools like Bullis or Barrie offer smaller classes (often 12-18 students) and more individualized attention. **Curriculum Flexibility:** Private schools have autonomy over curriculum, allowing for specialized approaches (Montessori, International Baccalaureate, Jesuit) that may differ from the MCPS standard. **Resources and Facilities:** While MCPS has significant funding, private schools invest heavily in specific areas like state-of-the-art labs, arts centers, and athletics facilities. **Community and Culture:** Private schools often foster a distinct community identity and values. **Cost:** MCPS is free, whereas private tuition is a major financial commitment. Many Dhs families choose MCPS for its diversity and academic strength, while others seek private education for a specific philosophy, religious foundation, or more tailored learning environment.
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