The Best Private Schools in Friendsville, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Friendsville. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Peter School
Catholic Schools of Greater Oakland
St. Peter School is a highly-regarded Catholic private school serving Garrett County and surrounding areas including Friendsville. Established in 1953, the school offers comprehensive Pre-K through 8th grade education with a strong emphasis on faith-based learning combined with rigorous academics. The school features modern facilities, small class sizes, and dedicated faculty who provide individualized attention. Programs include advanced STEM education, comprehensive arts programs, competitive athletics, and community service opportunities. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, academic excellence, and strong sense of community.
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Bishop Walsh School
Catholic Diocese of Arlington
Bishop Walsh School is a premier Catholic college preparatory school serving Western Maryland, including the Friendsville area. Founded in 1963, the school offers comprehensive education from Pre-K through 12th grade with an International Baccalaureate program and rigorous college preparatory curriculum. The campus features state-of-the-art science labs, technology centers, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. The school is known for its strong academic performance, with graduates consistently attending top colleges and universities. Parent reviews highlight the exceptional faculty, diverse extracurricular offerings, and supportive learning environment that prepares students for success.
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Mountain Ridge Christian Academy
Independent Christian School
Mountain Ridge Christian Academy is a respected independent Christian school serving the tri-state area of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, including Friendsville families. Established in 1999, the school provides comprehensive education from Pre-K through 12th grade with a strong biblical worldview integrated throughout the curriculum. The academy features modern classrooms, science laboratories, computer labs, and athletic facilities. The school emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence, offering advanced placement courses, competitive sports programs, and extensive fine arts opportunities. Parents appreciate the small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and strong community atmosphere that fosters both academic and spiritual growth.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Friendsville, Maryland
What are the main private school options available for families living in or near Friendsville, Maryland?
Friendsville, MD, is a small town, so most private school options are located in the broader Garrett County and Allegany County region. The primary institutions include St. Peter School (a Catholic K-8 school in Oakland), Bishop Walsh School (a Catholic K-12 school in Cumberland), and Mountain Ridge Christian Academy (a non-denominational Christian school in Frostburg). Due to Friendsville's rural location, parents should anticipate a commute, often ranging from 20 to 45 minutes, to access these schools. Exploring these specific schools and their transportation policies is a key first step for Friendsville families.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Friendsville, MD, area compare to state averages, and are there any Maryland-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition for the schools serving the Friendsville area is generally below the state average for private schools, reflecting the region's cost of living. For the 2024-2025 school year, expect ranges from approximately $5,000 to $10,000 annually, depending on the school and grade level. Maryland offers the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) Scholarship Program, which is a vital resource for eligible families. This state-funded program provides scholarships for students from lower-income households to attend private schools. Additionally, all the local schools offer their own need-based financial aid and parish subsidies for Catholic schools.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Friendsville, MD, offer that leverage the local environment?
Private schools in the Friendsville region often integrate the unique Appalachian environment into their programs. Bishop Walsh School, for example, offers robust outdoor education and environmental science opportunities that take advantage of nearby state parks and the Savage River. Mountain Ridge Christian Academy may emphasize agricultural science or nature studies. Furthermore, due to smaller class sizes, these schools can offer personalized learning tracks and strong arts or music programs that might be limited in the rural public districts. Their focus often includes character and faith-based education tailored to community values.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Friendsville, Maryland, families?
The enrollment process for schools like St. Peter, Bishop Walsh, and Mountain Ridge Christian Academy typically begins in January or February for the following fall. Given the limited seats in these smaller schools, early inquiry is strongly advised. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a family interview or student assessment. Many schools host open houses in the fall. A critical step for Friendsville parents is to inquire about transportation logistics early, as bus service may be limited or require a district transfer agreement.
For a family in Friendsville, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school (Northern Garrett County schools) and a private school?
The decision often hinges on educational philosophy, class size, and commute. Northern Garrett County Public Schools offer the convenience of proximity and no tuition. However, private options provide smaller class sizes, specific religious or values-based instruction, and sometimes different curricular approaches. Parents must weigh the daily commute to a private school against the desired educational environment. Additionally, the BOOST scholarship can make private school financially accessible. It's recommended to visit both the local public school and the private options to compare culture, facilities, and program offerings directly.
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