The Best Private Schools in White Plains, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in White Plains. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Beddow Schools
The Beddow Schools
The Beddow Schools is a highly-regarded private institution serving White Plains and surrounding Charles County communities since 1979. This family-owned school offers comprehensive early childhood through elementary education with a strong emphasis on individualized learning. The school features modern facilities, small class sizes, and a robust STEM curriculum. Parents consistently praise the dedicated faculty, nurturing environment, and strong academic foundation. The school's location in nearby Waldorf makes it easily accessible for White Plains families seeking quality private education with a proven track record of student success.
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St. Peter's School
Catholic Diocese of Arlington
St. Peter's School is a long-standing Catholic private school serving White Plains and the greater Waldorf area with a classical education approach. Founded in 1959, the school offers Pre-K through 8th grade education rooted in Catholic traditions while providing strong academic fundamentals. The campus features well-maintained facilities including science labs, library, and athletic fields. The school is known for its strong community atmosphere, dedicated teachers, and comprehensive curriculum that includes religion, language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Extracurricular programs in sports, music, and arts complement the academic experience.
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Archbishop Neale School
Catholic Diocese of Arlington
Archbishop Neale School serves White Plains families from its location in nearby La Plata, providing Catholic education for Pre-K through 8th grade students since 1964. The school offers a balanced curriculum that integrates faith formation with strong academic preparation. Features include technology-enhanced classrooms, science laboratories, and comprehensive arts and athletic programs. The school community is known for its family-oriented atmosphere and commitment to developing well-rounded students. With small class sizes and experienced faculty, Archbishop Neale provides personalized attention and has established a reputation for academic excellence and character development in Southern Maryland.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in White Plains, Maryland
What are the primary private school options available for families in White Plains, Maryland, and what are their educational approaches?
White Plains, MD, offers a few established private schools, primarily with religious affiliations. The Beddow Schools provide a private, non-sectarian education from Pre-K through 8th grade, often emphasizing a structured academic environment. St. Peter's School and Archbishop Neale School are both Catholic institutions offering a faith-based education integrated with a standard curriculum. For broader options, many White Plains families also consider private schools in the larger Waldorf or La Plata areas within Charles County. It's important to visit each, as their size, community feel, and specific curricular emphases can differ significantly.
How does tuition at private schools in White Plains, MD, compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for the private schools in White Plains is generally below the high-end averages for Maryland's major metropolitan areas but is a significant household consideration. For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition at these K-8 schools often ranges from approximately $6,000 to $10,000 annually. Maryland offers the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) Scholarship Program, which provides state-funded vouchers for eligible families to use at private schools, including those in White Plains. Additionally, the individual schools, particularly the Catholic ones, may offer parish subsidies, sibling discounts, and need-based financial aid, so direct inquiry is essential.
What is the typical enrollment process and timeline for private schools like Archbishop Neale or St. Peter's in White Plains?
The enrollment process for private schools in White Plains often begins in the winter prior to the desired fall start date. For schools like Archbishop Neale and St. Peter's, priority is frequently given to siblings of current students and active members of their supporting parishes. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, a pastoral reference (for parishioners), and often a student assessment or shadow day. Many families start inquiries by October or November, with application deadlines typically set for January or February for the following school year. We recommend contacting the school office directly in the early fall to get specific dates and requirements.
Are there unique academic or extracurricular programs offered by private schools in White Plains that leverage the local Charles County environment?
While each school has its own focus, private schools in White Plains often integrate the local environment into their programs. Given Charles County's rich history and proximity to the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay watershed, schools may incorporate local ecology, Maryland history, and Chesapeake Bay conservation into their science and social studies curricula. Extracurriculars are often community-focused due to the smaller school sizes, with an emphasis on local service projects, parish activities, and partnerships with community organizations. Athletics may involve collaboration with other small private or parish schools in Southern Maryland.
For a family in White Plains, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public schools (Charles County Public Schools) and a private school option?
The decision often hinges on class size, religious education, and specific student needs. Charles County Public Schools offer a wide range of programs, including advanced placement and specialty centers, but typically have larger class sizes. Private schools in White Plains, like The Beddow Schools or the Catholic schools, offer much smaller class sizes (often 15-20 students), allowing for more individualized attention. The religious component is a major differentiator for families seeking a faith-based education. Additionally, private schools may offer a more consistent and traditional disciplinary environment. Parents should consider the financial commitment, transportation (as private schools do not provide county busing), and how each setting aligns with their child's learning style and family values.