The Best Private Schools in Grass Lake, Michigan
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Grass Lake. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Greenhills School
Greenhills School
Greenhills School is an elite independent college preparatory school located in Ann Arbor, approximately 30 minutes from Grass Lake. Serving grades 6-12, Greenhills consistently ranks among Michigan's top private schools with exceptional college placement records. The school features a rigorous academic program with extensive Advanced Placement offerings, outstanding faculty with advanced degrees, and state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, performing arts spaces, and athletic facilities. The school emphasizes critical thinking, writing across disciplines, and character development. Extracurricular opportunities include competitive athletics, extensive arts programs, and numerous clubs and activities.
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Jackson Montessori School
Jackson Montessori School
Jackson Montessori School is a highly-regarded private school located just 15 minutes from Grass Lake. Following authentic Montessori principles, the school serves students from toddler through elementary levels with a child-centered approach that emphasizes hands-on learning, independence, and academic excellence. The school features small class sizes, certified Montessori teachers, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes language arts, mathematics, cultural studies, and practical life skills. Parents consistently praise the nurturing environment and strong academic foundation provided.
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St. Mary Star of the Sea School
Catholic Schools of Jackson
St. Mary Star of the Sea School is a Catholic elementary school serving students from preschool through 8th grade, located approximately 12 miles from Grass Lake. The school provides a faith-based education with strong academic foundations, featuring small class sizes, dedicated certified teachers, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced mathematics, literacy, science, and religious education. The school community is known for its family atmosphere, strong moral values, and excellent preparation for high school. Facilities include modern classrooms, technology labs, and dedicated spaces for art and music.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Grass Lake, Michigan
Are there any private schools physically located within Grass Lake, Michigan, or will we need to commute to nearby cities?
There are no private K-12 schools physically located within the village limits of Grass Lake itself. Families in Grass Lake typically commute to private schools in surrounding areas. The most common options include Jackson Montessori School in Jackson (approx. 15-20 minutes west), St. Mary Star of the Sea School in Jackson (a Catholic school), and Greenhills School in Ann Arbor (approx. 30-40 minutes east). This commute is an important logistical factor for Grass Lake families to consider when evaluating private school options.
How does the tuition for private schools near Grass Lake, MI, compare to the state average, and are there any Michigan-specific financial aid programs?
Tuition for private schools serving the Grass Lake area varies significantly. For the 2024-2025 academic year, Jackson Montessori School's tuition is approximately $7,000-$9,000, while Greenhills School in Ann Arbor is over $30,000. Michigan offers specific financial aid opportunities that Grass Lake residents can access. The most notable is the Michigan ECE (Educational Choice Expansion) Scholarship, a state-funded program for eligible families. Additionally, many private schools offer their own need-based aid, and some participate in the Tuition Incentive Program (TIP) for lower-income students.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools near Grass Lake offer that might not be available in the local public district?
Private schools accessible from Grass Lake provide distinct specialized programs. Jackson Montessori School offers authentic Montessori education for ages 3-12, focusing on individualized, hands-on learning. St. Mary Star of the Sea provides a faith-based curriculum integrated with Catholic values. Greenhills School is a top-tier college preparatory school with extensive Advanced Placement (AP) offerings, renowned arts programs, and competitive athletic leagues. These options contrast with Grass Lake's public schools, which, while offering solid programs, may not have the same depth in Montessori, faith-based, or elite college-prep tracks.
What are the typical enrollment timelines and admission requirements for private schools serving Grass Lake families?
Enrollment timelines for schools like Jackson Montessori, St. Mary Star of the Sea, and Greenhills School generally begin in the fall for the following academic year, with priority deadlines often between January and March. Requirements differ: Montessori schools may require classroom observations; Catholic schools typically require baptismal records and family interviews; and selective schools like Greenhills require standardized testing (ISEE/SSAT), teacher recommendations, essays, and interviews. As a Grass Lake resident, it's crucial to plan for potential waitlists, especially for popular programs, and to account for any geographic or parish boundaries for faith-based schools.
For a family in Grass Lake, what are the key factors in choosing between the local public schools and a private school requiring a commute?
The decision hinges on several Grass Lake-specific factors. First, evaluate the commute to Jackson or Ann Arbor against the offerings of Grass Lake Community Schools, which are well-regarded but have a different scale and focus. Consider your child's needs: a Montessori, faith-based, or intensely college-prep environment may justify the drive. Financially, weigh tuition and aid against the cost of commuting. Also, consider community connection—attending a private school outside the village may mean your child has fewer local peers. Many Grass Lake families find a hybrid approach, using local public schools for younger years and considering private options for specialized high school programs.
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