The Best Private Schools in Harwood, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Harwood. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Indian Creek School
Independent
Indian Creek School is a highly-regarded independent day school serving students from preschool through 12th grade. Located just 15 minutes from Harwood, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with small class sizes and personalized attention. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts spaces, and athletic complexes. Known for strong academic outcomes, the school emphasizes character development alongside intellectual growth, with graduates consistently attending top-tier colleges and universities.
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Key School
Independent
The Key School is a prestigious independent school located in Annapolis, approximately 20 minutes from Harwood. Serving students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, Key emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to learning that fosters critical thinking and creativity. The school features extensive campus facilities including dedicated arts buildings, science centers, and athletic fields. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, Key School prepares students for college and beyond through challenging academics and extensive extracurricular opportunities.
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St. Mary's Elementary School
Catholic
St. Mary's Elementary School is a well-established Catholic school serving students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade, located about 15-20 minutes from Harwood. The school provides a strong academic foundation within a faith-based community environment. Facilities include modern classrooms, technology labs, and dedicated spaces for music and art. The curriculum balances core academics with character education, and the school maintains small class sizes to ensure individual student attention. Many graduates continue to top private high schools in the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Harwood, Maryland
What are the primary private school options serving families in Harwood, Maryland, and what are their educational models?
Harwood, MD, is served by several notable private schools, though many are located in nearby communities due to its rural setting. The top options include Indian Creek School in Crownsville (Pre-K-12, college-prep with a focus on individual potential), Key School in Annapolis (Pre-K-12, progressive education emphasizing arts and critical thinking), and St. Mary's Elementary School in Annapolis (K-8, Catholic parish school). For Harwood residents, these schools represent a commitment to driving to neighboring towns for private education, with models ranging from independent college-prep to faith-based. Exploring each school's culture and commute is a key first step for Harwood parents.
How does Maryland's BOOST scholarship program affect tuition affordability for Harwood families considering private schools?
Maryland's Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) program provides state-funded scholarships for eligible K-12 students to attend private schools. For Harwood families with household incomes at or below certain state thresholds, this can significantly offset tuition costs at participating schools like Indian Creek or St. Mary's. The application is separate from school admissions and is highly competitive. It's crucial to apply during the state's open window (typically early in the calendar year) and confirm your chosen school's participation. This program is a major financial consideration unique to Maryland private education.
Given Harwood's proximity to the Chesapeake Bay, do local private schools offer specialized environmental or marine science programs?
Yes, Harwood's location in Anne Arundel County inspires unique program offerings. Indian Creek School, for instance, has a strong Environmental Leadership program and utilizes its 114-acre campus with wetlands for hands-on learning. Key School in Annapolis integrates Chesapeake Bay studies across its curriculum, with partnerships at local marine labs. This regional focus provides Harwood students with exceptional opportunities for environmental science, sustainability projects, and waterfront field studies that are deeply connected to the local ecosystem, a distinctive advantage of schools in this area.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and key deadlines for private schools in the Harwood/Annapolis region?
The enrollment process for competitive private schools in the Harwood area generally follows an annual cycle. Admissions for the following academic year typically open in September, with application deadlines between January and February for schools like Indian Creek and Key. Key steps include fall open houses, winter entrance assessments/interviews, and decision notifications in March. St. Mary's Elementary may have a rolling admissions policy but encourages early application. Given the limited seats and competitive nature, Harwood families are advised to begin research and visits 12-18 months prior to desired enrollment.
How do transportation options for private schools work for families living in the more rural area of Harwood, MD?
Transportation is a significant logistical consideration for Harwood residents, as most private schools do not provide public bus service. Families typically arrange carpools or private driving, which can mean a 20-45 minute commute to schools in Annapolis or Crownsville. Some schools, like Indian Creek, may offer fee-based bus service from designated regional stops, but these rarely extend directly into Harwood's rural routes. When evaluating schools, Harwood parents should factor in daily travel time and costs, and connect with other local families through school parent networks to explore carpool possibilities early.
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