The Best Private Schools in Highland, Michigan
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Highland. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Everest Academy & High School
Private Catholic School
Everest Academy provides a comprehensive college-preparatory education rooted in Catholic values. The school features small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and modern facilities including science labs, art studios, and athletic fields. Academic programs emphasize STEM, humanities, and faith formation, with extensive extracurricular offerings in sports, music, and community service. Parent satisfaction is high due to strong academic outcomes and a supportive, family-oriented environment.
Programs:
Quality Private School 3
Independent School
A trusted private school serving the Highland community with quality education and personalized learning.
Programs:
Quality Private School 2
Independent School
A trusted private school serving the Highland community with quality education and personalized learning.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Highland, Michigan
What are the primary private school options available for families in Highland, Michigan, and what educational levels do they serve?
Highland, Michigan, offers several private school options, with Everest Academy & High School being a prominent local institution. Everest provides a Catholic, college-preparatory education from preschool through 12th grade, serving as a major educational hub for the area. While specific details on other named schools would require direct inquiry, the private school landscape in Highland and surrounding Oakland County typically includes faith-based academies, independent preparatory schools, and specialized institutions. Many families in this semi-rural community also consider reputable private schools in nearby communities like Milford, Hartland, and Brighton, which may offer Montessori, Lutheran, or non-denominational Christian education, expanding the choices within a reasonable commute.
How does tuition for private schools in Highland, MI, compare to state averages, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in the Highland area generally aligns with or slightly exceeds the Michigan state average for private education, reflecting Oakland County's cost of living. For example, annual tuition for a K-8 program at a local private school can range from $6,000 to $10,000, while high school may be $10,000 to $14,000. Michigan offers specific financial mechanisms to assist families, most notably the state's 529 plan (MESP) which can now be used for K-12 private school tuition. Additionally, many schools, including Everest Academy, offer need-based financial aid, parish subsidies for member families, and sibling discounts. It's also worth exploring Michigan-based scholarship organizations that provide grants to students attending private schools.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Highland area offer that leverage the local community?
Private schools in Highland and its surrounding region often design programs that capitalize on the area's natural resources and community assets. For instance, schools may integrate environmental science programs utilizing the Highland State Recreation Area and local lakes for fieldwork. Given the strong sense of community in Highland, many private schools emphasize service learning with local partners like the Highland Township Fire Department, local food pantries, or senior centers. Furthermore, schools like Everest Academy often have robust STEM programs and arts offerings that may collaborate with nearby Oakland University or local arts councils. Athletic programs frequently compete in the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) and may have strengths in sports popular in the region, such as cross-country, skiing, or soccer.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Highland, Michigan, and are there important local deadlines?
The enrollment process for private schools in Highland typically begins in the fall or winter for the following academic year, with many schools hosting open houses from October through January. A key local consideration is that application deadlines for the most sought-after schools in Oakland County often fall between January and March. The process usually involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and often a student assessment or shadow day. For families new to the area, many schools in Highland have rolling admissions if space permits, but early application is strongly advised, especially for entry grades like kindergarten, 6th, and 9th. It's crucial to contact schools directly, as some may have waiting lists or specific parish registration requirements for priority admission.
For families considering both sectors, what are the key differences between the public Huron Valley Schools district and private options in Highland, Michigan?
The primary public education for Highland residents is provided by the Huron Valley Schools district (serving Highland and Milford). Key differences include curriculum flexibility and religious education. Private schools in Highland, such as Everest Academy, offer a defined religious and moral framework (Catholic) integrated into daily learning, which public schools cannot provide. Academically, private schools often have smaller class sizes, which can allow for more individualized attention. In terms of programs, Huron Valley Schools offer a wide range of public-funded extracurriculars, advanced placement courses, and special education services. Private schools may offer unique college-prep tracks or specialized arts programs. Financially, opting for private school means paying tuition versus the tax-supported public system. The choice often hinges on a family's priorities for faith-based education, specific learning environments, and desired community alignment.
Private Education Insights
Discover the Best Private Schools in Highland, Michigan: A Parent's Guide
For families in Highland, Michigan, the search for the best private schools is often driven by a desire for a specific educational environment that aligns closely with family values and academic aspirations. Nestled in the heart of Oakland County, Highland offers a unique setting where community-focused living meets access to a wider metropolitan area. This creates a distinct context for choosing a private school, where the definition of "best" extends beyond test scores to include community fit, educational philosophy, and the practicalities of daily life in our township. The journey isn't about finding a one-size-fits-all top ranking, but rather identifying the institution that will best nurture your child's individual potential within our local landscape.
Several established institutions serve the Highland area, each offering a different path. Everest Academy & High School, for instance, provides a prominent faith-based, college-preparatory option from preschool through twelfth grade. Its structured environment and emphasis on character formation resonate with many families seeking a traditional private education grounded in specific values. Other quality private schools in the region might offer more progressive, project-based learning models or specialize in supporting different learning styles. The key is to understand that the best private schools for your neighbor may not be the best for your child, making personal research and campus visits indispensable.
When evaluating options, Highland parents should consider several local factors. Proximity is a practical concern; the daily commute along Milford Road or M-59 can influence quality of life, making schools in or near Highland Township particularly appealing. Furthermore, consider how a school’s community extends into our area. Do they have carpool networks with other Highland families? Do their extracurricular activities, like sports or arts programs, complement the resources available in our local parks and recreation programs? The ideal school should feel like a seamless extension of your family's life in Highland, not a separate world that requires constant long-distance logistics.
Ultimately, identifying the best private schools near Highland involves a balance of introspection and investigation. Start by clearly defining your priorities: is it small class sizes, a robust STEM program, a strong arts curriculum, or a particular athletic conference? Then, schedule tours. When you visit, ask not just about college acceptance lists, but about how the school fosters resilience, curiosity, and kindness. Observe the students—do they seem engaged and happy? Speak to current parents, especially those from Highland, to get a genuine sense of the day-to-day experience. The investment in private education is significant, and in a community like ours, it’s also an investment in your child’s local network and sense of belonging. By taking a thoughtful, community-aware approach, you can move beyond generic lists and find the truly best private school fit, right here in the Highland area.