Private Schools in Lake Leelanau, Michigan

The Leelanau School is an acclaimed independent college preparatory school located just minutes from Lake Leelanau in Glen Arbor. This coeducational boarding and day school serves students in grades 9-12 with a unique experiential learning approach. The school features small class sizes (6:1 student-teacher ratio), personalized attention, and a curriculum that integrates traditional academics with hands-on learning in Michigan's natural environment. The campus includes modern academic facilities, science labs, art studios, and athletic facilities on a 42-acre campus near Sleeping Bear Dunes. The school is known for its strong college placement record and holistic approach to education that develops confident, capable learners.

Greenspire School is a highly-regarded public school academy serving students from Lake Leelanau and surrounding areas with a unique environmental and place-based education model. Located in nearby Traverse City, the school serves grades K-8 with a focus on hands-on, experiential learning that connects students to their natural environment. The curriculum emphasizes environmental science, sustainability, and project-based learning while meeting all state academic standards. The school features outdoor classrooms, garden spaces, and regular field experiences that take advantage of Northern Michigan's natural resources. Parents consistently praise the school's engaging approach to education, dedicated teachers, and strong sense of community.

St. Mary's School is a long-standing Catholic school located directly in Lake Leelanau, serving students from preschool through 8th grade. As one of the oldest continuously operating schools in Northern Michigan, St. Mary's provides a comprehensive faith-based education with strong academic foundations. The school features small class sizes, dedicated certified teachers, and a curriculum that integrates Catholic values with rigorous academic standards. Facilities include modern classrooms, technology labs, a gymnasium, and outdoor play areas. The school community is known for its family atmosphere and strong parent involvement, with many families from Lake Leelanau and surrounding communities choosing St. Mary's for its academic excellence and character development focus.