The Best Private Schools in Hernando, Mississippi
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Hernando. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. George's Independent School - Collierville Campus
St. George's Independent School
St. George's Independent School is a highly-regarded private institution serving students from pre-K through 12th grade. The Collierville/Germantown campus offers a comprehensive International Baccalaureate program and is known for its rigorous academic curriculum, exceptional faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. The school serves families throughout the Memphis metropolitan area, including Hernando residents, with a focus on developing well-rounded students through extensive extracurricular activities, arts programs, and athletic offerings. With small class sizes and a commitment to personalized education, St. George's consistently produces graduates who attend top-tier universities.
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Northpoint Christian School
Independent Christian School
Northpoint Christian School is a premier private Christian school located just minutes from Hernando in Southaven. Serving students from pre-K through 12th grade, Northpoint offers a comprehensive college-preparatory curriculum with advanced placement courses, robust STEM programs, and championship-caliber athletics. The school features modern facilities including science labs, performing arts centers, and extensive athletic complexes. With a strong emphasis on character development and academic excellence, Northpoint has built a reputation for preparing students for college success while maintaining a Christ-centered educational environment that appeals to families throughout DeSoto County.
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First Assembly Christian School
First Assembly Christian School
First Assembly Christian School is a well-established private Christian institution serving the greater Memphis area, including Hernando families. The school offers a comprehensive educational program from pre-K through 12th grade with a strong college-preparatory focus. FACS provides a balanced education featuring advanced academic courses, competitive athletics, vibrant fine arts programs, and spiritual development. The school's experienced faculty and modern campus facilities create an environment conducive to academic achievement and personal growth. With a track record of graduating students who excel in college and beyond, First Assembly has maintained its reputation as one of the region's top private educational options for over four decades.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Hernando, Mississippi
What are the primary private school options for families residing in Hernando, Mississippi, and are they located within the city limits?
Families in Hernando, MS, primarily consider several well-regarded private schools in the broader DeSoto County and Memphis metro area. Notably, the top schools often referenced are St. George's Independent School - Collierville Campus (in Tennessee, about a 25-minute drive), Northpoint Christian School in Southaven, MS (approx. 20 minutes away), and First Assembly Christian School in Memphis, TN (approx. 30 minutes away). There are limited private school campuses physically within Hernando's city limits, so commuting to neighboring cities is a common reality for Hernando parents seeking private education. It's important to factor in daily travel time and transportation logistics when evaluating these options.
How does tuition for private schools near Hernando, MS, compare to the state average, and what financial aid options are typically available?
Tuition for the major private schools serving Hernando families tends to be higher than the Mississippi state average for private schools, due in part to their facilities, programs, and proximity to the Memphis market. For the 2024-2025 academic year, annual tuition for these schools often ranges from approximately $10,000 to $25,000+ depending on the grade level and institution. Most schools, including Northpoint Christian and St. George's, offer need-based financial aid and sometimes merit-based scholarships. Mississippi also has the Education Scholarship Account (ESA) program, which provides state-funded accounts for eligible students (including those switching from public schools) to use for private school tuition and other expenses, which can significantly offset costs for qualifying Hernando families.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do private schools in the Hernando area offer that differentiate them from local public schools?
Private schools accessible to Hernando residents often emphasize specialized programs not always available in public districts. For example, St. George's Independent School offers a renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) program from primary years through diploma. Northpoint Christian School provides strong college-prep academics alongside extensive athletic and fine arts programs. First Assembly Christian School integrates faith-based learning with technology and arts. A common differentiator is smaller class sizes, often 15-20 students, allowing for more individualized attention. Many also offer distinctive extracurriculars like competitive robotics, comprehensive theater productions, or unique language immersion tracks, catering to diverse student interests beyond Mississippi's standard curriculum.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for private schools near Hernando, MS, and when should parents start applying?
The enrollment process for competitive private schools in the Hernando area often begins very early. Most schools (like St. George's and Northpoint) have application deadlines in January or February for the following fall semester, with admissions decisions released by March. The process typically includes submitting an application, academic records, teacher recommendations, standardized test scores, a family interview, and a student assessment or visit day. For families in Hernando, it is strongly advised to start researching and touring schools in the fall, a full year before desired enrollment. Waiting lists are common, especially for entry grades like Kindergarten, 6th, and 9th grades, so early action is crucial to secure a spot.
For a family living in Hernando, what are the key considerations when choosing between the high-performing DeSoto County public schools and a private school option?
This is a central decision for Hernando families, as DeSoto County Schools are consistently ranked among the best public districts in Mississippi. Key considerations include: **Educational Philosophy:** Private schools offer specific religious (Christian) or pedagogical (IB, classical) approaches, while public schools follow state standards. **Class Size:** DeSoto County public schools can have larger class sizes (25-30+ students), whereas private schools promise smaller, more personalized settings. **Logistics & Cost:** Public schools are tuition-free and zoned for neighborhood attendance, eliminating commute and cost. Private schools require significant financial investment and a daily commute to Southaven, Collierville, or Memphis. **Extracurricular Niche:** Private schools may offer more specialized arts or clubs, while large public high schools in Hernando provide a wide array of sports, AP courses, and activities due to their scale. The decision often hinges on a family's priorities for faith integration, specific learning environments, and willingness to manage the financial and logistical commitments.
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