The Best Private Schools in Perry Point, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Perry Point. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Independence School
Independent
The Independence School is an acclaimed independent school offering programs from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade, known for its innovative and nurturing learning environment. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on STEM education, literacy, and arts integration, supported by dedicated faculty and small class sizes. Facilities include interactive classrooms, science labs, art rooms, and outdoor learning spaces. The school promotes parent partnership and community engagement, with high satisfaction rates due to its strong academic outcomes and well-rounded extracurricular programs.
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St. Mark's High School
Catholic Diocese of Wilmington
St. Mark's High School is a premier Catholic college preparatory school serving grades 9-12 with a strong reputation for academic rigor and character formation. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum including Advanced Placement courses, robust STEM programs, and extensive service-learning opportunities. Facilities feature state-of-the-art science and technology labs, a performing arts center, and athletic complexes. With a focus on holistic education, St. Mark's boasts high college acceptance rates and active parent involvement, making it a top choice for families in the region.
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Tome School
Independent
Tome School is a highly-regarded independent co-educational institution serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12. Known for its rigorous college preparatory curriculum, the school emphasizes small class sizes, individualized attention, and a strong sense of community. Facilities include modern science labs, art studios, and athletic fields. Extracurricular offerings range from robotics and theater to competitive sports, fostering well-rounded development. Parent satisfaction is high due to its academic excellence and supportive environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Perry Point, Maryland
What are the primary private school options available for families living in or near Perry Point, Maryland?
While Perry Point itself is a small, unincorporated community, families typically look to nearby towns and cities for private education. The most prominent options include The Tome School in North East, MD (a historic, college-preparatory day school for grades 5-12), St. Mark's High School in Wilmington, DE (a Catholic, co-educational school about 30 minutes away), and The Independence School in Newark, DE (a private school for students from age 2 through 8th grade). Due to Perry Point's location in Cecil County near the Delaware and Pennsylvania borders, many families also consider private schools in Elkton, MD, and across state lines, making geographical logistics an important factor in the decision.
How does Maryland's BOOST scholarship program affect tuition affordability for Perry Point families considering private school?
Maryland's Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) program provides state-funded scholarships for eligible K-12 students to attend participating private schools. This is a critical financial consideration for Perry Point families. Eligibility is based on household income (up to 300% of the federal free and reduced-price meal guidelines), with priority given to students from lower-income families or those currently attending public schools in low-performing districts. Many private schools in the region, including those in Cecil County and nearby Delaware, participate. Parents must apply directly to the BOOST program annually, and awards can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost of tuition.
Given Perry Point's proximity to major research and healthcare institutions, do local private schools offer specialized STEM or biomedical programs?
Yes, Perry Point's location is a significant advantage. The area is home to the Perry Point VA Medical Center and is within the Chesapeake Bay research corridor. Schools like The Tome School emphasize a strong college-prep STEM curriculum. Furthermore, private schools in the broader region, including those in Wilmington, often have partnerships with nearby institutions like the University of Delaware, Nemours Children's Hospital, and INcyte for advanced science courses, internships, and specialized academies. When researching schools, parents should inquire about specific advanced placement (AP) science courses, robotics programs, and any formal partnerships that provide real-world learning opportunities in these fields.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving the Perry Point, MD area?
The enrollment process for private schools in the National Capital region typically begins in the fall, one year prior to desired entry. For example, applications for the 2024-2025 school year often open in September 2023. Key steps include: 1) Attending open houses (usually held September-November), 2) Submitting an application with fees by January/February deadlines, 3) Completing student assessments and interviews, and 4) Receiving admission decisions in March. Many schools also have financial aid application deadlines in early winter. It's crucial to start early, as some grades, particularly kindergarten and middle school entry points, have limited space. Schools like Washington International School and Sidwell Friends have particularly competitive processes.
How do transportation options for private schools work for families residing in Perry Point, given its semi-rural setting?
Transportation is a key logistical consideration in Perry Point. Most private schools in the area do not provide extensive busing, especially across state lines into Delaware. Families often rely on carpools, private transportation services, or personal commutes. Some schools, particularly parish-based Catholic schools, may offer limited bus routes from central locations in Cecil County. For a school like The Tome School, which draws from a wide geographic area, parents should directly inquire about any organized carpool lists or contracted shuttle services from designated park-and-ride locations. Planning for daily transportation time and cost is an essential part of the decision-making process for Perry Point residents.
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