The Best Private Schools in Woolford, Maryland
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Woolford. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Gunston School
Independent
The Gunston School is a premier coeducational, independent day school serving students in grades 9-12. Located just 15 miles from Woolford, Gunston offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with exceptional STEM programs, particularly in environmental science and marine studies. The school features a 35-acre waterfront campus on the Corsica River, state-of-the-art facilities including science labs and performing arts spaces, and a 7:1 student-teacher ratio. Known for its strong community values and academic excellence, Gunston consistently sends graduates to top-tier colleges and universities.
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The Country School
Independent
The Country School is an independent day school serving students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade, located approximately 12 miles from Woolford in Easton. The school offers a challenging academic program with strong emphasis on STEAM education, character development, and hands-on learning. The 15-acre campus features modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, athletic fields, and extensive outdoor learning spaces. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, The Country School prepares students for success in secondary education while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and leadership skills.
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Saints Peter and Paul High School
Catholic
Saints Peter and Paul High School is a Catholic, coeducational college preparatory school serving students in grades 9-12. Located approximately 12 miles from Woolford in Easton, the school offers a comprehensive academic program with Advanced Placement courses, robust STEM curriculum, and extensive fine arts programs. The campus features modern classrooms, science laboratories, athletic facilities, and a chapel. With a strong emphasis on character development and community service, SSPP provides a values-based education while maintaining high academic standards and college acceptance rates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Woolford, Maryland
What are the primary private school options available for families in and around Woolford, Maryland?
Woolford itself is a small, rural community on Maryland's Eastern Shore, so families typically look at well-regarded private schools in the broader Talbot and Queen Anne's County area. The most prominent options include The Gunston School in Centreville (a co-ed, college-preparatory day and boarding school for grades 9-12), Saints Peter and Paul High School in Easton (a Catholic, co-ed high school), and The Country School in Easton (a pre-K through 8th grade independent school). Due to Woolford's location, transportation and commuting are important factors to consider when evaluating these schools.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Woolford, MD area compare, and are there financial aid options specific to Maryland?
Tuition in this region varies by school and grade level. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges such as approximately $30,000+ for upper grades at The Gunston School, around $12,000-$14,000 for Saints Peter and Paul High School, and mid-$20,000s for The Country School. Maryland offers the Broadening Options and Opportunities for Students Today (BOOST) Scholarship Program, which provides state-funded vouchers for eligible K-12 students to attend private schools. This can be a significant financial resource for qualifying families in Woolford. Additionally, all these schools offer their own need-based financial aid.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Woolford, Maryland offer that leverage the local environment?
Schools in this Chesapeake Bay region often integrate the local environment into their curricula. The Gunston School has a renowned Chesapeake Bay Studies program and waterfront campus, offering environmental science, sailing, and rowing. The Country School emphasizes outdoor and experiential learning on its 50-acre campus. Saints Peter and Paul provides strong college-prep with community service ties to the Eastern Shore. This focus on environmental stewardship, maritime activities, and small-town community engagement is a distinctive feature of private education in the Woolford area.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools serving Woolford, Maryland families?
The process generally begins in the fall, a full year before desired entry. For schools like The Country School (Pre-K-8) and The Gunston School (9-12), open houses are held from September to November. Application deadlines are often in January or February, with admission decisions released in March. Given the limited seats in these smaller community schools, starting early is crucial. Many require student visits, interviews, and standardized testing (like the SSAT for Gunston). For Saints Peter and Paul, as a diocesan school, priority may be given to parish members, so checking with local Catholic churches is advised.
For a family in rural Woolford, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local public school (likely in Talbot County) and a private school in the area?
Key considerations include: 1) **Educational Approach:** Talbot County Public Schools offer a standard curriculum, while private options provide smaller class sizes, specific religious education (SPP), or progressive college-prep (Gunston, Country School). 2) **Logistics:** Woolford families must factor in daily commutes to Easton, Centreville, or beyond, as no private schools are located directly in Woolford. 3) **Cost vs. Value:** Weighing tuition against potential benefits like specialized programs or individualized attention. 4) **Community:** Public schools connect children with immediate local peers, while private schools create a network across the Eastern Shore. Visiting both types is essential to feel the difference in environment.
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