The Best Private Schools in Florence, Mississippi
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Florence. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
Jackson Preparatory School
Jackson Prep
Jackson Prep is a premier independent college preparatory school serving the greater Jackson metropolitan area, including Florence. Founded in 1970, the school offers a rigorous academic curriculum with 22 Advanced Placement courses, comprehensive STEM programs, and competitive athletics. The 52-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, performing arts centers, and athletic complexes. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Jackson Prep consistently achieves high college acceptance rates and academic excellence.
Programs:
Madison-Ridgeland Academy
MRA
Madison-Ridgeland Academy is a highly-regarded private school serving students from Florence and surrounding communities. Established in 1969, MRA offers a comprehensive educational program from elementary through high school with a strong emphasis on college preparation. The school features advanced academic programs, championship athletic teams, and extensive fine arts offerings. Their 72-acre campus includes modern classrooms, science and technology labs, and extensive athletic facilities. MRA maintains small student-teacher ratios and has a reputation for academic excellence.
Programs:
Jackson Academy
Jackson Academy
Jackson Academy is an established independent school that serves families throughout the Jackson metro area, including Florence. Founded in 1959, JA offers a comprehensive educational experience from pre-K through 12th grade with a strong college preparatory curriculum. The school features advanced STEM programs, competitive athletics, and extensive arts offerings. Their 42-acre campus includes modern academic buildings, science and technology centers, and athletic facilities. Jackson Academy is known for its academic rigor, dedicated faculty, and strong community atmosphere.
Programs:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Florence, Mississippi
What are the primary private school options for families residing in Florence, MS, and what are their relative proximities?
While Florence itself is a smaller community, families typically look to the greater Jackson metro area for private school options. The most prominent are Jackson Preparatory School, Madison-Ridgeland Academy (MRA), and Jackson Academy. Jackson Prep and Jackson Academy are located in Northeast Jackson, approximately a 20-25 minute commute from Florence. Madison-Ridgeland Academy is in Madison, MS, which is about a 15-20 minute drive north via I-55. There are no major private school campuses physically located within Florence's city limits, so commuting is a standard consideration for local families.
How does tuition for top private schools near Florence, MS, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options exist?
Tuition at schools like Jackson Prep, MRA, and Jackson Academy typically ranges from approximately $12,000 to $18,000 per year for K-12, which is above the Mississippi private school average due to their extensive facilities and academic offerings. Mississippi offers the Equal Opportunity for Students with Special Needs (EOSSN) program, a state-funded ESA (Education Scholarship Account) that can provide over $6,800 per year for eligible students with an IEP to use at private schools. Additionally, each of these schools offers their own need-based financial aid programs. It's crucial for Florence parents to apply for both school-based aid and state programs during the admissions process.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools serving Florence, MS, offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
The leading private schools in the Jackson metro area provide specialized programs not always available in Rankin County public schools. For example, Jackson Preparatory School has a renowned Engineering and Biomedical Sciences Institute. Madison-Ridgeland Academy offers extensive fine arts programs and competitive athletic conferences. Jackson Academy features a strong college counseling program and a 1:1 technology initiative. These schools also generally have smaller class sizes, more advanced placement (AP) course offerings, and distinctive faith-based or character education curricula, which are key draws for Florence families.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools like Jackson Prep or MRA for a family from Florence?
The process is highly structured and begins early. For entry at any grade level, especially transitional ones like Kindergarten, 6th, or 9th grade, families should initiate inquiries in the fall, a full year before desired enrollment. Key steps include: attending open houses (usually held September-November), submitting applications by January/February deadlines, completing standardized testing and student interviews, and applying for financial aid concurrently. Waiting pools are common for popular grades. Given the commute from Florence, it's also advisable to connect with other local families at the school to explore carpool options early.
For a family in Florence, what are the practical considerations when choosing between the local Rankin County public schools and a private school in Jackson or Madison?
The decision involves several location-specific factors. Academically, Rankin County public schools are generally well-regarded in Mississippi, so the comparison often centers on specific program offerings, class size, and educational philosophy. The daily commute from Florence to Jackson or Madison (20-30 minutes each way) is a significant logistical and time commitment versus local bus service. Financially, parents must weigh tuition costs against the potential avoidance of attendance zone changes or desire for a particular faith-based environment. Many Florence families value the consistent, college-preparatory community and network that a metro-area private school provides from K-12, which can outweigh the commute.
Nearby Cities
Explore private schools in nearby cities