The Best Private Schools in Fort Washington, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Fort Washington. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Burgundy Farm Country Day School
Independent
Burgundy Farm Country Day School is a highly acclaimed progressive independent school serving families from Fort Washington and the greater Washington D.C. metropolitan area. Founded in 1946, the school offers a unique educational approach combining rigorous academics with extensive outdoor and environmental education on its 25-acre campus. The school features an innovative curriculum, dedicated faculty with advanced degrees, and exceptional facilities including science labs, art studios, and extensive outdoor learning spaces. Parents consistently rate the school highly for its nurturing environment, academic excellence, and commitment to developing well-rounded students from junior kindergarten through 8th grade.
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St. Mary's School of Piscataway
Archdiocese of Washington Catholic Schools
St. Mary's School of Piscataway is a highly-regarded Catholic elementary school serving the Fort Washington and surrounding communities. With over 50 years of educational excellence, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum rooted in Catholic values while emphasizing academic rigor. The school features modern STEM labs, dedicated art and music programs, and extensive athletic facilities. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, small class sizes, and strong community involvement. The school serves students from Pre-K through 8th grade with before and after-school care options.
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The Foundation School
The Foundation Schools
The Foundation School is a renowned private special education school serving students from Fort Washington and throughout the Maryland region. With nearly 50 years of operation, the school specializes in serving students with emotional disabilities, autism, and other learning challenges. The school offers comprehensive therapeutic services integrated with rigorous academics, small class sizes with 8:1:1 student-to-staff ratios, and individualized education plans. Facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, therapeutic spaces, and vocational training centers. The school is highly praised for its transformative impact on students and strong parent communication.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Fort Washington, Maryland
What are the primary types of private schools available in Fort Washington, Maryland, and how do they differ?
Fort Washington, MD, offers a diverse range of private school options catering to different educational philosophies. You'll find faith-based institutions like St. Mary's School of Piscataway (Catholic, Pre-K-8), which provides a structured, values-oriented education. There are also progressive schools like Burgundy Farm Country Day School (though located in nearby Alexandria, VA, it serves many MD families), emphasizing experiential, environmental learning. Additionally, Fort Washington is home to specialized schools such as The Foundation School, which focuses on serving students with unique learning needs, including emotional and behavioral challenges. This variety allows parents to choose based on pedagogical approach, religious affiliation, or specific student support services.
How does tuition for Fort Washington, MD, private schools compare to the Maryland state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in the Fort Washington area is generally competitive with or slightly above the Maryland state average for private education, reflecting the higher cost of living in the National Capital region. For the 2023-2024 academic year, area schools like St. Mary's have tuition in the $10,000-$15,000 range for elementary grades. Most established private schools in this area, including those serving Fort Washington families, offer robust financial aid programs. These are primarily need-based and may include parish subsidies for Catholic schools, institutional grants, and payment plans. Maryland also offers the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) Scholarship Program, a state-funded voucher that provides financial assistance for eligible K-12 students to attend nonpublic schools, which many local families utilize.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are emphasized by private schools in the Fort Washington, MD, area?
Private schools in and serving Fort Washington often leverage their proximity to Washington, D.C., for unique programs. Many emphasize STEM and environmental science, with schools like Burgundy Farm Country Day utilizing its 26-acre campus as an outdoor classroom. St. Mary's School of Piscataway integrates technology and a strong core curriculum with its Catholic identity. Given the area's demographics, several schools offer strong cultural arts programs and language immersion opportunities. Furthermore, schools like The Foundation School provide highly specialized programs in social-emotional learning, therapeutic support, and individualized academic plans, addressing needs not typically met in a standard public school setting. Many also have partnerships with local historical sites like Fort Washington Park for enrichment.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Fort Washington, MD, and when should parents start?
The enrollment process for Fort Washington-area private schools typically begins in the fall, one year prior to desired entry. Open houses are usually held between October and January, with application deadlines ranging from January to March for the following academic year. Schools like St. Mary's and The Foundation School often require application forms, school records, teacher recommendations, and a family interview or student visit/assessment. Due to competitive seats, especially in popular lower grades, it is strongly advised that parents start researching and visiting schools at least 12-18 months in advance. Rolling admissions may be available for some grades or specialized programs, but early action is key. Many schools also host summer camps or preview days that can serve as an informal introduction.
For a family in Fort Washington, what are the key considerations when deciding between a local public school (in Prince George's County) and a private school?
The decision hinges on several Fort Washington-specific factors. Prince George's County Public Schools offer diverse programs, but some families seek private options for smaller class sizes, specific religious education, or specialized learning environments. Private schools in the area often provide more consistent resources and may have longer operational hours, which can be a benefit for commuting families in this D.C. suburb. Transportation is a key differentiator; while PG County provides busing, most private schools require parents to arrange transportation, which impacts logistics for this sprawling community. Additionally, private schools like those in Fort Washington can offer a distinct community feel and tailored curricula, but parents must weigh this against the significant tuition investment versus the no-cost public option, potentially using Maryland's BOOST scholarship to bridge the gap.
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