The Best Private Schools in Cleveland, Mississippi
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Cleveland. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. George's Episcopal School
St. George's Episcopal School
Located in nearby Clarksdale, St. George's Episcopal School serves students from across the Mississippi Delta region, including Cleveland families. This highly-regarded independent school offers a rigorous liberal arts education with strong emphasis on critical thinking and character development. The school features comprehensive Advanced Placement courses, outstanding fine arts programs, and competitive athletics. With a 100% college acceptance rate and exceptional teacher-student ratios, St. George's provides a nurturing environment focused on academic excellence and personal growth.
Programs:
Washington School
Washington School
Washington School in Greenville is another excellent regional option serving Cleveland-area students. As one of the largest and most established private schools in the Mississippi Delta, it offers a comprehensive college preparatory program with numerous Advanced Placement courses. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities including modern science labs, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic complexes. Washington School is known for its strong academic tradition, competitive sports programs, and vibrant student life, making it a popular choice for families seeking rigorous education with diverse extracurricular opportunities.
Programs:
Bayou Academy
Bayou Academy
Bayou Academy is Cleveland's premier private school offering comprehensive education from pre-K through 12th grade. The school features a strong college preparatory curriculum with advanced placement courses, robust STEM programs, and competitive athletics. With modern facilities including science labs, technology centers, and athletic complexes, Bayou Academy provides a well-rounded education. The school emphasizes character development and community involvement while maintaining small class sizes for personalized attention.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Cleveland, Mississippi
What are the primary private school options available in Cleveland, Mississippi, and what are their educational philosophies?
Cleveland, MS, is served by three main private schools: Bayou Academy, St. George's Episcopal School, and Washington School. Bayou Academy offers a traditional college-preparatory curriculum with a strong emphasis on athletics and extracurriculars. St. George's Episcopal School provides a values-based education rooted in the Episcopal tradition, focusing on character development and community service. Washington School is known for its rigorous academic program and historic legacy in the Delta, often emphasizing leadership and fine arts. Each school has a distinct culture, so visiting and understanding their core philosophies is key to finding the right fit for your child in the Cleveland community.
How does tuition at Cleveland, Mississippi private schools compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for private schools in Cleveland generally ranges from approximately $6,000 to $10,000 annually for K-12, which is often below or competitive with the state average for similar private institutions in Mississippi. All three major schools—Bayou, St. George's, and Washington—offer need-based financial aid, and some may have merit-based scholarships. Additionally, Mississippi's Education Scholarship Account (ESA) program can provide state-funded accounts for eligible students to use for private school tuition and other educational expenses, which is a significant financial consideration for families in the Delta region exploring private education.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do Cleveland, MS private schools offer that leverage the local Delta culture?
Private schools in Cleveland often integrate the rich cultural heritage of the Mississippi Delta into their programs. For example, schools may offer specialized studies in Delta blues history, Southern literature, or agricultural science that connect to the local economy. Extracurricularly, programs like Washington School's debate team (historically strong) or Bayou Academy's focus on sports rivalries with other Delta schools provide a distinct regional flavor. Furthermore, community service projects frequently partner with local organizations addressing Delta-specific needs, giving students a grounded, place-based education unique to Cleveland.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools in Cleveland, and are there waitlists?
The enrollment process for Cleveland's private schools usually begins in the winter (January-February) for the following academic year, with application deadlines often in March. The process typically involves submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, and a student/parent interview. Standardized testing may be required for some grade levels. Due to the limited number of seats, especially in popular grades, waitlists are common at schools like Washington School and St. George's. It is highly advisable for Cleveland-area families to begin inquiries early and attend fall open houses to secure a spot.
For families considering both options, what are the key differences between the Cleveland School District public schools and the local private schools?
The key differences lie in class size, curriculum flexibility, and resources. Cleveland School District public schools offer diverse programs and are tuition-free, serving the broader community. In contrast, private schools like Bayou, St. George's, and Washington typically have much smaller class sizes (often 15-20 students), allowing for more individualized attention. They also have the autonomy to design accelerated or specialized curricula without state-mandated testing constraints. However, private schools require tuition and may have less diversity in some areas. For Cleveland families, the choice often hinges on desired educational approach, community environment, and the value placed on the specific traditions and programs each private institution offers.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities