The Best Private Schools in Burlington, Massachusetts
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Burlington. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Lexington Montessori School
Lexington Montessori School
Lexington Montessori School is a highly-regarded independent school located just minutes from Burlington in neighboring Lexington. The school serves students from infancy through eighth grade with a comprehensive Montessori curriculum that emphasizes individualized learning, hands-on exploration, and community engagement. The campus features modern classrooms, extensive outdoor learning spaces, and specialized facilities for arts, music, and physical education. With small class sizes and highly trained Montessori teachers, the school consistently receives exceptional parent reviews for its nurturing environment and strong academic preparation.
Programs:
The Pike School
The Pike School
The Pike School is a prestigious independent day school serving students from Pre-K through 8th grade, with many families commuting from Burlington and surrounding communities. The school offers a rigorous academic program balanced with extensive arts, athletics, and character education. Campus facilities include state-of-the-art science labs, technology-integrated classrooms, performing arts spaces, and extensive athletic facilities. Pike is known for its exceptional teacher quality, with faculty holding advanced degrees and extensive experience. The school maintains small class sizes and emphasizes project-based learning, critical thinking, and community service.
Programs:
Belmont Day School
Belmont Day School
Belmont Day School is a highly respected independent school located in nearby Belmont, serving students from Pre-K through eighth grade with many Burlington-area families in attendance. The school features a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic excellence with social-emotional learning, including robust STEAM programs, world language instruction from early grades, and extensive arts and athletics. The 11-acre campus includes modern classrooms, science labs, innovation spaces, athletic fields, and nature trails. Belmont Day is particularly noted for its inclusive community, dedicated faculty, and strong preparation for secondary school placement.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Burlington, Massachusetts
What are the primary private school options for Burlington, MA families, and are there any located directly in town?
While Burlington itself is home to several highly-regarded public schools, most of the top-tier private schools are located in neighboring towns, drawing many Burlington families. Notable options include The Pike School in Andover (Pre-K to 9), Belmont Day School in Belmont (Pre-K to 8), and Lexington Montessori School in Lexington (Toddler to 6th). Burlington residents also frequently consider schools in the Greater Boston area. There are a limited number of private, often faith-based, options within Burlington's borders, so transportation to surrounding communities is a common consideration for parents seeking independent school education.
How does tuition for private schools in the Burlington, MA area compare to the state average, and what financial aid is typically available?
Tuition for day schools in the Burlington area is among the highest in Massachusetts, reflecting the region's cost of living and competitive academic market. For the 2024-25 school year, expect tuition ranges of approximately $40,000 to $55,000 for elementary and middle schools. Massachusetts private schools are committed to socioeconomic diversity and offer robust financial aid programs. Schools like The Pike School and Belmont Day School have significant endowment-funded aid budgets, offering need-based grants that can substantially reduce cost. It's crucial to apply for aid simultaneously with admission, as funds are allocated early.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Burlington, MA offer that differentiate them from the strong public schools?
Private schools in the Burlington orbit often specialize in specific educational philosophies and offer deep, individualized programs. For example, Lexington Montessori School provides authentic Montessori education through 6th grade. The Pike School emphasizes a thematic, integrated curriculum and a renowned social-emotional learning program called "Pike Pride." Belmont Day School features a dedicated innovation lab and a mandatory "Explorations" program in arts, athletics, and sustainability. These schools typically have lower student-to-teacher ratios than public districts, allowing for more personalized learning and niche electives that may not be available in a larger public school setting.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools serving Burlington, MA families?
The admission process for Greater Boston private schools is highly structured and begins early. The timeline typically starts in the summer or early fall (12-18 months before desired entry) with open houses and tours. Application deadlines are often in January for the following September. The process almost always includes a parent interview, a student visit/assessment, teacher recommendations, and standardized testing (like the ISEE or SSAT for middle school levels). Due to intense competition, especially for entry points like Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 6th grade, Burlington families are advised to start research early, attend fall open houses, and ensure all application materials are submitted well before deadlines.
For a family living in Burlington, what are the key considerations when choosing between the high-performing public school system and a private school in the area?
The decision often hinges on educational philosophy, class size, and specific program offerings. Burlington Public Schools are consistently high-achieving, offer a wide range of AP courses at the high school level, and require no tuition. Choosing a private school often involves seeking a specific pedagogical approach (like Montessori), a smaller, more intimate community, or a particular focus on arts, innovation, or character education that aligns closely with family values. The trade-offs include significant financial investment and, often, a longer commute. Many Burlington families value the community connection of local public schools, while others seek the tailored mission and specialized resources of a private institution, even if it means looking beyond town borders.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities