The Best Private Schools in Westford, Massachusetts
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Westford. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
The Meadowbrook School of Weston
Independent School
The Meadowbrook School is a highly respected independent day school serving students from Junior Kindergarten through 8th grade. While located in Weston, this school attracts families from Westford and surrounding areas seeking exceptional elementary and middle school education. The school features a balanced curriculum emphasizing academic excellence, character development, and social-emotional learning. Notable programs include comprehensive STEAM education, visual and performing arts, competitive athletics, and outdoor education. The beautiful campus includes modern classrooms, science labs, art studios, performance spaces, and extensive athletic facilities. Meadowbrook is known for preparing students for success at top secondary schools throughout New England.
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Lawrence Academy
Independent School
Lawrence Academy is a prestigious independent boarding and day school located in nearby Groton, serving students in grades 9-12. With over two centuries of educational excellence, this school offers a comprehensive college preparatory program known for its innovative Winterim program where students engage in intensive, experiential learning. The 100-acre campus features modern academic facilities, extensive athletic complexes, arts centers, and dormitories. Lawrence Academy emphasizes personalized learning, critical thinking, and character development while maintaining strong athletic traditions and robust arts programs. The school serves many students from Westford and surrounding communities.
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The Academy of Notre Dame
Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur
The Academy of Notre Dame is a highly-regarded Catholic independent school serving students from Pre-K through grade 12. Located just minutes from Westford in Tyngsborough, this coeducational school offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with small class sizes and personalized attention. The campus features state-of-the-art science labs, technology-integrated classrooms, athletic facilities, and performing arts spaces. Notable programs include advanced placement courses, competitive athletics, extensive visual and performing arts, and community service opportunities. The school maintains a strong academic reputation with graduates consistently attending top-tier colleges and universities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Westford, Massachusetts
What are the primary private school options available to families residing in Westford, MA, and what are their key characteristics?
While Westford itself is primarily served by its highly-rated public school system, several prestigious private schools in the surrounding area are popular choices for Westford families. Notable options include The Academy of Notre Dame in Tyngsboro (co-ed, Pre-K-12, Catholic independent), Lawrence Academy in Groton (co-ed, 9-12, boarding/day, with a strong focus on personalized learning and athletics), and The Meadowbrook School of Weston in Weston (co-ed, Junior K-8, progressive education). Many Westford students also consider other independent schools in the Greater Boston and I-495 corridor. Transportation to these schools is typically the family's responsibility, which is an important logistical consideration for Westford residents.
How does tuition for private schools near Westford, MA, compare, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private day schools in the Westford area varies significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, expect ranges from approximately $20,000-$30,000 for elementary grades at schools like The Academy of Notre Dame to over $60,000 for boarding programs at schools like Lawrence Academy. Massachusetts has a strong culture of financial aid among its independent schools. Most, including those listed, offer need-based financial aid through programs like the School and Student Service (SSS). Additionally, Massachusetts residents should investigate the state's 529 plan, which can now be used for K-12 private school tuition, offering potential tax-advantaged savings.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Westford offer that might complement the town's tech-oriented community?
Reflecting Massachusetts' innovation economy and Westford's own high-tech industrial base, area private schools often feature robust STEM and entrepreneurship programs. Lawrence Academy, for instance, has its "Winterim" program where students engage in intensive, hands-on projects, often in tech and engineering. The Academy of Notre Dame offers a 1:1 iPad program and advanced STEM tracks. Furthermore, proximity to Boston and Route 128 tech hubs allows these schools to facilitate internships, guest speakers from tech companies, and partnerships not always as readily available in a public school setting, aligning well with the interests of many Westford families.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for competitive private schools in the Greater Westford, MA, area?
The admission process for top private schools near Westford is highly structured and begins early. For fall entry, the key timeline is: Spring/Summer before entry (research and attend open houses), September-January (submit applications, which often include the SAO or Gateway application, teacher recommendations, transcripts, and student essays), December-February (complete required student interviews and entrance exams like the SSAT or ISEE). Decision notifications are typically released in March. Given the competitiveness, especially for entry points like 6th and 9th grade, Westford families are advised to start the process at least 12-18 months in advance.
For families considering both, what are the main factors when comparing Westford Public Schools to private day schools in the region?
This is a significant consideration, as Westford Public Schools are consistently ranked among the top districts in Massachusetts. The choice often comes down to specific needs and preferences. Private schools offer smaller class sizes (often 12-15 students vs. 20-25 in Westford public schools), specialized pedagogical approaches (e.g., progressive, project-based, or faith-based), and more flexibility in curriculum. However, Westford Public Schools provide a comprehensive, tuition-free education with extensive AP offerings, athletics, and arts. The decision may hinge on whether a family seeks a particular educational philosophy, religious foundation, or a more intimate community setting versus the robust, well-resourced, and local community experience of Westford's public system.
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