The Best Private Schools in Still River, Massachusetts
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Still River. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Nashoba Brooks School
Independent School
Nashoba Brooks School is a highly regarded independent school serving students from pre-kindergarten through grade 8. Located in nearby Concord, the school serves families throughout the Greater Boston area including Still River. The school emphasizes academic excellence with a strong focus on developing confident, ethical learners. Features include state-of-the-art facilities, a comprehensive STEAM program, world language instruction starting in pre-kindergarten, and competitive athletics. The school is known for its small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and strong community atmosphere.
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Lawrence Academy
Independent School
Lawrence Academy is one of the oldest independent boarding and day schools in the United States, serving students in grades 9-12. Located in Groton, approximately 15 miles from Still River, the school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with extensive Advanced Placement options. The campus features modern academic facilities, arts centers, and athletic complexes. Lawrence Academy is particularly noted for its Winterim program, which provides immersive learning experiences, and its strong college placement record. The school serves both local day students and boarding students from around the world.
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Applewild School
Independent School
Applewild School is an independent co-educational day school serving students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. Located in Fitchburg, the school serves families throughout north central Massachusetts including the Still River area. The school provides a strong academic foundation with particular emphasis on STEM education, visual and performing arts, and character development. Features include dedicated science labs, art studios, music rooms, and athletic facilities. Applewild is known for its warm, inclusive community and commitment to developing well-rounded students prepared for secondary education.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Still River, Massachusetts
What are the primary private school options serving families in Still River, Massachusetts, and what age groups do they cover?
Still River, a village within the town of Harvard, MA, is served by several prestigious private schools in the immediate area. The most prominent are Nashoba Brooks School (co-ed Pre-K to Grade 3, all-girls Grades 4-8), Applewild School (co-ed Pre-K to Grade 8, with a campus in nearby Fitchburg), and Lawrence Academy (co-ed Grades 9-12). These schools draw students from Still River, Harvard, and surrounding towns in north-central Massachusetts. While Still River itself is small, its location provides access to these established institutions, each with a distinct educational focus and community.
How does the tuition for private schools in the Still River, MA area compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition in the Still River area reflects the high quality and resources of these schools. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges such as approximately $40,000 for upper grades at Nashoba Brooks and Lawrence Academy, with Applewild and lower grades generally in the $30,000-$40,000 range. Importantly, all these schools are committed to socioeconomic diversity and offer robust need-based financial aid programs. Massachusetts has strong charitable foundations, and schools often have substantial endowments to support aid. Parents should apply for financial aid simultaneously with admissions, using tools like the Clarity Application, as significant grants (not loans) can substantially reduce the net cost.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs are offered by private schools near Still River, MA, that leverage the local environment?
Schools in the Still River area capitalize on their New England setting and campus resources. Lawrence Academy features a distinctive "Winterim" program, a two-week immersive term in March where students pursue passion projects, internships, or travel. Nashoba Brooks emphasizes STEM and leadership, with a strong integration of technology and outdoor education on its 30-acre campus. Applewild School is noted for its "Exploratories" program, including woodworking, visual arts, and music, fostering hands-on learning. The proximity to historic Concord, Boston, and the natural landscapes of central Massachusetts allows for rich field studies in history, science, and environmental stewardship.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in the Still River, Massachusetts region?
The admissions process for these selective schools is similar and begins early. For fall entry, the ideal timeline starts 12-18 months in advance. Key steps include: attending open houses (often in the fall), submitting applications by January deadlines (with some rolling admissions for younger grades), and completing student visits/interviews and standardized testing (like the SSAT for Lawrence Academy) in the winter. Notification dates are typically in early to mid-March. Given the competitive nature and small class sizes, especially for entry points like Pre-K/K, 6th, and 9th grades, early engagement is strongly advised. Many families from Still River and Harvard also consider the relationship with the local Harvard public schools as part of their decision timeline.
For families in Still River, what are the key considerations when choosing between the local Harvard public schools and area private schools?
This is a significant decision for Still River families. The Harvard Public School District is highly rated, which is a major draw. Choosing a private school often involves seeking a specific educational philosophy (e.g., single-gender classrooms at Nashoba Brooks, progressive curriculum at Lawrence Academy), smaller class sizes for more individualized attention, or specialized programs not available in the public system. Proximity is also a factor; while the public schools are in Harvard center, private schools require transportation, which families must arrange. The financial commitment is substantial, so families weigh the value of the public school's excellence against the private option's distinct offerings. Many families appreciate having both a top-tier public system and renowned private options within their community.
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