The Best Private Schools in Pearlington, Mississippi
Discover 3 exceptional private schools in Pearlington. Find the perfect educational environment for your child with our comprehensive reviews and ratings.
School Overview
Top-Rated Private Schools
St. Stanislaus College
Catholic Diocese of Biloxi
St. Stanislaus is a prestigious all-boys Catholic college preparatory school located just 15 miles from Pearlington. With a 165-year history of academic excellence, the school offers rigorous college preparatory curriculum with strong STEM and marine science programs. The campus features extensive waterfront access, modern academic facilities, and comprehensive athletic programs. The school maintains small class sizes with a 10:1 student-teacher ratio and has a 100% college acceptance rate. Their comprehensive approach includes character development and leadership training.
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Our Lady Academy
Catholic Diocese of Biloxi
Our Lady Academy is an all-girls Catholic college preparatory school serving the Mississippi Gulf Coast region, including Pearlington families. The school offers a rigorous academic program with comprehensive honors and advanced placement courses. Known for strong fine arts and athletic programs, OLA emphasizes leadership development and community service. The school features modern classrooms, science labs, and athletic facilities. With a strong track record of college placements and a supportive learning environment, it provides personalized attention with small class sizes.
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St. Patrick Catholic High School
Catholic Diocese of Biloxi
St. Patrick Catholic High School serves students from across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, including the Pearlington area. The school offers a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum with specialized academies in STEM and fine arts. Features include state-of-the-art science labs, performing arts center, and extensive athletic facilities. The school maintains a strong academic reputation with numerous Advanced Placement courses and a 100% college acceptance rate. With a focus on faith formation and character development, St. Patrick provides a well-rounded education in a supportive community environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about private schools in Pearlington, Mississippi
What are the private school options for families residing in Pearlington, Mississippi, given that the top schools listed are in nearby Bay St. Louis?
While Pearlington itself is a small, unincorporated community, families seeking private education typically look to neighboring cities in Hancock County. The top schools, like St. Stanislaus College (all-boys), Our Lady Academy (all-girls), and St. Patrick Catholic High School (co-ed), are located approximately 15-20 minutes away in Bay St. Louis. There are no major private school campuses within Pearlington's immediate boundaries, so commuting is a standard expectation. Parents should also explore smaller parochial or faith-based elementary schools in the wider Gulf Coast region as part of their search.
How does the tuition for private schools like St. Stanislaus or Our Lady Academy compare to the Mississippi state average, and what financial aid options are available for Pearlington residents?
Tuition at these Bay St. Louis institutions is generally higher than the Mississippi private school average, reflecting their college-preparatory curricula and facilities. For the 2024-2025 academic year, high school tuition ranges from approximately $8,000 to $10,000+ annually. However, Mississippi offers specific financial assistance programs that Pearlington families can utilize, most notably the Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for eligible students and the Education Scholarship Account (ESA) program, which provides state-funded accounts for special needs students. Additionally, each school offers need-based financial aid, parish subsidies for active Catholic families, and payment plans.
What unique academic or extracurricular programs do the private schools accessible from Pearlington, MS, offer that leverage the local coastal environment?
Schools like St. Stanislaus and Our Lady Academy capitalize on their proximity to the Gulf Coast and the Mississippi Sound. St. Stanislaus has a renowned Naval Junior ROTC program with maritime activities and a waterfront campus. Many of these schools integrate marine science and environmental studies into their curricula, with potential for field research in local estuaries. Extracurriculars often include sailing, fishing clubs, and robust science fairs focused on coastal resilience and ecology, providing a distinctive educational experience rooted in the region's geography and culture.
What is the typical enrollment timeline and process for a Pearlington student applying to a private high school like St. Patrick Catholic High School?
The enrollment process for these competitive schools begins early. For fall admission, applications typically open in September/October of the preceding year, with deadlines in January or February. The process for Pearlington students is identical to that for Bay St. Louis residents and includes submitting an application, academic records, standardized test scores (like the HSPT), teacher recommendations, and often a student interview. Many schools host open houses in the fall. It's crucial to apply early, as some grades have waiting lists. Prospective families should also attend a Mass at a supporting parish if seeking a parishioner tuition rate.
For a Pearlington family, what are the key considerations when deciding between the local public schools (Hancock County School District) and commuting to a private school in Bay St. Louis?
The decision hinges on several location-specific factors. Pearlington is served by the Hancock County School District, with students attending South Hancock Elementary and later Hancock Middle/High School. Choosing private involves a daily commute across the Pearl River or along I-10, impacting time and transportation logistics. Academically, private options offer smaller class sizes, religious education (if desired), and a consistent college-prep focus. Public schools provide proximity, no tuition, and may offer specialized programs. Families should weigh the value of the private school community and specific programs against the convenience and cost-savings of the local public system, considering their child's individual needs.
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