The Best Private Schools in Friendship, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Friendship. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Calverton School
Independent
The Calverton School is a highly-regarded independent college preparatory school serving Southern Maryland, including the Friendship area. Founded in 1976, Calverton offers a comprehensive educational program from preschool through 12th grade with small class sizes and individualized attention. The school features a robust STEM program, extensive arts curriculum, and competitive athletic teams. Their 48-acre campus includes modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities. Calverton emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, with a focus on preparing students for college and beyond.
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The King's Christian Academy
Christian School
The King's Christian Academy is a respected Christian private school serving the Southern Maryland region, including Friendship. Established in 1979, TKCA provides education from preschool through 12th grade with a Christ-centered approach to learning. The academy offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum integrated with biblical principles, featuring strong academic programs, competitive sports teams, and comprehensive fine arts opportunities. The school maintains small class sizes and emphasizes both academic achievement and spiritual growth, preparing students for college success while fostering strong moral character.
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Calvert Country School
Specialized Education
Calvert Country School is a specialized private school serving students with learning differences and special needs throughout Calvert County and the Friendship area. Founded in 1994, the school provides individualized educational programs for students who benefit from small, structured environments. Their comprehensive approach includes academic instruction, therapeutic support, life skills training, and vocational preparation. The school features specialized classrooms, sensory rooms, and therapeutic spaces designed to support diverse learning needs. With highly trained staff and personalized attention, Calvert Country School helps students achieve academic success and develop essential life skills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Friendship, Maryland
What are the primary private school options serving families in Friendship, Maryland, and what are their educational approaches?
Friendship, MD, is a small, rural community in Calvert County, so families typically look to nearby towns for private education. The leading options include The Calverton School (in Huntingtown), offering a college-preparatory program with a focus on character and community; The King's Christian Academy (in St. Mary's County), which provides a Christ-centered, classical education; and Calvert Country School (in Prince Frederick), which specializes in serving students with learning differences. While not within Friendship's immediate borders, these schools are the primary private institutions drawing from the area. Transportation is a key consideration, as most require private commuting.
How does tuition for private schools in the Friendship, MD, area compare, and are there financial aid options specific to Maryland?
Tuition in the Friendship area varies significantly by school and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $10,000 to over $25,000 annually. The Calverton School is typically at the higher end, while parochial options may be more moderate. Importantly, 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 families in Friendship and across Calvert County. Each school also has its own need-based financial aid and payment plans.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Friendship, MD, offer that leverage the local Chesapeake Bay environment?
Several private schools near Friendship capitalize on the region's natural and historical resources. The Calverton School, for instance, has a strong environmental science program that utilizes the nearby Chesapeake Bay and Patuxent River for hands-on learning, including oyster restoration and water quality studies. Its location also supports unique outdoor education and leadership trips. While not all schools have a formal marine science track, the proximity to the Bay and numerous state parks often influences science curricula, outdoor clubs, and field trips in a way that distinguishes them from urban private schools.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Friendship, MD, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for schools like Calverton, King's Christian, and Calvert Country School generally begins in the fall prior to the desired school year, with application deadlines between January and March. Key steps include submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a student visit or interview. Due to the limited number of private seats in Calvert County, popular grades (especially early elementary and middle school entry points) can have waitlists. It is highly advisable for Friendship families to begin research and campus visits a full year in advance. Rolling admissions may be available if spaces remain.
For a family in rural Friendship, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public schools (Calvert County Public Schools) and a private school option?
The decision often hinges on several location-specific factors. Calvert County Public Schools are highly rated in Maryland, offering robust programs. However, families may seek private schools for smaller class sizes, specialized learning environments (like Calvert Country School for differentiated instruction), or a specific religious foundation. The major practical consideration is transportation; public schools provide busing throughout Friendship, while private schools require a significant daily commute to Huntingtown, Prince Frederick, or St. Mary's County. The community aspect also differs: private schools can create a close-knit, region-wide network, whereas public schools anchor the child in the immediate Friendship and county community.
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