The Best Private Schools in Ridge, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Ridge. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Leonardtown Hall Montessori School
Independent Montessori School
Leonardtown Hall Montessori School is a highly-regarded private school serving St. Mary's County, including the Ridge area. This accredited Montessori institution offers authentic Montessori education for children ages 2.5 through 12 years. The school features small class sizes, individualized learning plans, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes practical life skills, sensorial development, language arts, mathematics, cultural studies, and Spanish. The campus includes well-equipped classrooms, outdoor learning environments, and specialized Montessori materials. Parents consistently praise the school's nurturing environment, experienced teachers, and strong academic foundation that prepares students for future success.
Programs:
The Calverton School
Independent College Preparatory School
The Calverton School is a prestigious independent college preparatory school serving Southern Maryland, including families from Ridge. Founded in 1971, this accredited institution offers education from preschool through 12th grade with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and character development. The 43-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, technology centers, art studios, athletic fields, and performing arts spaces. The school offers Advanced Placement courses, competitive athletics, extensive arts programs, and community service opportunities. Calverton maintains small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 8:1 and has an excellent college acceptance record.
Programs:
Archbishop Neale School
Catholic Archdiocese of Washington
Archbishop Neale School is a highly-rated Catholic private school serving Charles County and surrounding areas including Ridge. This accredited parochial school offers education from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade with a comprehensive curriculum rooted in Catholic values. The school features modern classrooms, science labs, computer technology centers, a library media center, and athletic facilities. Academic programs include advanced mathematics, science enrichment, Spanish language instruction, and integrated technology. The school community is known for its strong parent involvement, dedicated faculty, and commitment to developing well-rounded students through academics, faith formation, and extracurricular activities including sports, music, and art programs.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Ridge, Maryland
What are the primary private school options serving families in Ridge, Maryland, and what are their educational philosophies?
Ridge, MD, is served by several notable private schools in nearby communities. The most prominent include Leonard Hall Junior Naval Academy (a military-focused day school in Leonardtown), The Calverton School (a Pre-K through 12 independent college-preparatory school in Huntingtown), and Archbishop Neale School (a Catholic K-8 school in La Plata). While not directly in the small town of Ridge, these are key institutions for Southern Maryland families. Their philosophies range from structured military leadership and character development to progressive independent education and faith-based learning. Transportation considerations are important, as commuting to these campuses is typical for Ridge residents.
How does tuition at private schools in the Ridge, Maryland area compare, and are there state-specific financial aid programs available?
Tuition in the Southern Maryland region varies significantly by school type and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect a range from approximately $7,000-$10,000 annually for parish-based Catholic schools like Archbishop Neale School, to $20,000-$30,000+ for independent schools like The Calverton School. Maryland 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 private schools. This can be a crucial resource for qualifying Ridge families. Additionally, most schools offer their own need-based financial aid and merit scholarships.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools accessible to Ridge, MD, students?
Private schools in the Southern Maryland area provide distinctive programs leveraging the region's character. The Calverton School emphasizes experiential learning with a strong environmental science focus, utilizing the nearby Chesapeake Bay watershed. Leonard Hall Junior Naval Academy offers a unique Naval Junior ROTC program, maritime studies, and leadership training aligned with the area's naval history. Archbishop Neale School provides a structured Catholic curriculum with sacramental preparation. For Ridge families, these schools often have stronger resources in arts, world languages, and competitive sports compared to smaller local public schools, with some offering unique travel or marine biology excursions.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Ridge, Maryland region?
The enrollment process for Southern Maryland private schools generally begins in the fall, one year prior to desired entry. Key steps include: 1) Attending open houses (often held October-January), 2) Submitting applications by January/February deadlines for the following fall, 3) Completing student assessments or shadow days, and 4) Receiving admission decisions in March. Rolling admission may continue if spaces remain. Due to the limited number of seats in these sought-after schools, Ridge families are advised to start early. Specific requirements vary; for example, Archbishop Neale may require parish verification, while The Calverton School requires teacher recommendations and standardized test scores.
For a family in Ridge, what are the major considerations when comparing the local public school options (like Dynard Elementary or Esperanza Middle) to area private schools?
Ridge families are zoned for St. Mary's County Public Schools. Key considerations include: **Class Size:** Private schools like Calverton or Archbishop Neale often have significantly smaller student-teacher ratios than public schools. **Curriculum & Religion:** Private schools offer specialized curricula (college-prep, military, faith-based) not available in public schools, which follow Maryland state standards. **Transportation:** St. Mary's County provides busing for public schools; private schools may require personal transportation or offer limited bus routes from central locations, a significant factor for rural Ridge. **Cost:** Public schools are tax-funded, while private tuition is an out-of-pocket expense, potentially offset by BOOST scholarships. The decision often hinges on desired educational approach, community values, and logistical feasibility.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities